A body of research from Australia indicates that men who identify with traditional masculine norms are less likely to reduce meat intake over their lifetimes or to switch to a diet centered on plant-based foods. This finding appears in the broader discourse around gender roles and dietary behavior. It is documented in the Sex Roles magazine based on the analyzed data.
The study sample included 5,244 Australian adults aged 18 to 92, with a near-even split between men and women. Among them, 4,897 regularly consumed meat. Participants were asked to rate their willingness to cut back on meat, while also assessing their own levels of femininity and masculinity. They were further queried about their openness to giving up meat altogether to pursue vegetarian or vegan lifestyles.
The results showed a link between meat-audience behavior and gender identity as well as self-esteem. Specifically, the more masculine a person perceived themselves to be, the stronger their aversion to the idea of reducing meat consumption. This sense of disgust toward cutting meat seemed to align with a broader pattern where gender identity shapes daily choices, including eating habits.
The researchers expanded the interpretation by noting that conservative views on gender roles and political orientation also correlate with meat-related attitudes. For example, participants who self-identified with traditional gender expectations tended to lean toward right-leaning political views, whereas those who perceived themselves as more liberal were less likely to conform to traditional gender norms. This paints a picture of meat consumption as a behavior connected to social signaling rather than a matter driven solely by health or bodily benefits.
In summary, the link between masculine presentation and meat consumption points to social structure and longstanding values rather than immediate health advantages. Meat intake, in this framing, becomes one way for men to express and reaffirm their gender identity within a given cultural context. The study adds to the growing understanding that dietary choices can reflect broader psychosocial dynamics rather than purely personal health motivations. (Source: Sex Roles, 2020)