The Vegan America Marketplace Daily Update 🌱

Let’s talk about meat. It’s the most debated topic in the plant-based world—the elephant in the room (except it’s usually a cow, pig, or chicken). People love it, crave it, grill it, and Instagram it. But what’s the real story behind that burger or gyro?

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: every year, humanity slaughters over 80 billion animals for food. That’s more than 200 million every single day—a number so massive it’s hard to even comprehend. For perspective, that’s more animals killed every two days than there are people in the U.S.

Most of these animals are raised in factory farms, often under conditions they wouldn't survive without constant antibiotics. Chickens—who make up the majority—are killed at just six weeks old. Pigs, smarter than dogs, are slaughtered within months. Cows, curious and social by nature, are separated from their calves days after birth. From an animal’s perspective, the meat industry isn’t just food production—it’s mass suffering on a scale few want to see.

And that’s before we get to the environmental toll. Livestock is responsible for about 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions—more than every car, plane, train, and boat combined. Producing just one pound of beef takes over 1,800 gallons of water. That’s 40 showers. Or one very thirsty cheeseburger.

Health-wise, heavy meat consumption has been linked to heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, plant-based diets have been shown to lower BMI, cholesterol, and blood pressure. TL;DR: Meat doesn’t always love you back.

But here’s the good news: the meat-free future is sizzling—and it’s not just about Beyond and Impossible (though shoutout to both). The new generation of plant-based meats is wild, inventive, and outrageously good.

🔥 Seitan that grills and shreds like the real thing
🥓 Vegan jerky that satisfies your road trip cravings
🥙 Gyros, ham, kebabs, and even brisket made without animals

We’ve curated a stacked collection of these plant-based meats from makers across the country. Whether you're veg-curious, flexitarian, or just hungry, there’s something here for you.

Check them out now at vegan-america.com and discover meat that’s better for you, the planet, and the beings we share it with.