Is too much made of going vegetarian and vegan?

Vegetarianism and veganism is growing in popularity all over the world as more and more people switch to a plant-based diet.

There are many reasons for doing so; some don’t like the taste of meat or find it hard to digest. Others are persuaded for environmental reasons or out of concern for animal welfare.

Critics of the movement argue many vegetarians and vegans use their diets as a way of virtue signalling; what once was a personal lifestyle choice is now seen as a political decision.

Veganism in particular also draws criticism for its close alignment with the clean eating movement, which many argue is simply a form of disordered eating.

Many argue that meat is an important part of a balanced diet and something humans have always done.

On the other side of the argument, vegetarians claim that modern farming methods mean we no longer need to rely on meat and can get all the nutrients we need without sacrificing animals in the process.

What do you think? Is too much made of going vegetarian and vegan? Or should more people be encouraged to adopt this lifestyle?