Written by Ryan Alexander

Every May, tens of thousands of people around the world embark on a brave and often transformative journey to explore a meat-free lifestyle with No Meat May. What started as a grassroots movement has become a global challenge that brings people together to explore and indulge in the best of plant-based food.  Our ultimate goal is to empower people to rethink their food choices for their health, the planet, food sustainability and, of course, for the animals caught up in our food systems. But let’s start at the beginning, what is No Meat May? Why should everyone participate, and what support is available to help you succeed?

The Origins of No Meat May: How It All Began 

No Meat May was founded in 2013 by my partner Guy James Whitworth and (me) Ryan Alexander, two Sydney-based creatives wanting to do something positive. Our mission was simple yet bold: to encourage people to ditch meat for 31-days and experience how damn good it feels to increase the healthy whole foods in one’s diet. 

Our campaign began with a small group of friends but quickly grew into a global movement. Today, it attracts tens of thousands of people each year from more than 50 countries. Last year, just shy of 80,000 people registered officially, and roughly double that number gave the challenge a go. The core motivation behind No Meat May has never changed, and that is to inspire, educate and empower people to make healthier, more sustainable and compassionate food choices. 

From the very first year, No Meat May was designed to be inclusive, non-judgmental, and flexible, welcoming everyone—from curious omnivores to long-time vegetarians—who are interested in exploring the benefits of eating less meat and animal products. 

Why Take the No Meat May Challenge? 

For Your Health 
Cutting out meat—even for just a month—can have profound health benefits. Research shows that reducing meat consumption can:

• Lower your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers
• Improve digestion and gut health with more fiber-rich plant foods, and  
• Support weight management and reduce inflammation 

The world’s leading health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Heart Association, and cancer prevention charities all recommend reducing red and avoiding processed meat intake due to links with chronic diseases and certain cancers. Our experience is that after just 31-days of embracing more high-fiber whole foods many participants report feeling more energetic, experiencing better digestion, lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and even noticing improvements in their skin. 

For the Planet

Animal agriculture is a leading contributor to deforestation, biodiversity loss, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. By shifting to more plant-rich eating, people significantly reduce their land, water and carbon footprints. 

 The environmental Benefits of Going Meat-Free for One Month include:

•  Saving 100,000 liters of water (equivalent to three months of showers)
• Reducing carbon emissions equal to driving 700 fewer kilometers
• Freeing up 30 square meters of land that would otherwise be used for livestock 

Scientists warn that food system change is crucial in tackling the climate and biodiversity crises. By signing up for No Meat May, you take a small but powerful step toward a more sustainable future, and no doubt inspire others around you. Every meal counts! 

For the Animals

This is the reason most people choose to stick with plant-based eating. Most meat consumed today comes from intensive factory farms, where animals are confined in unnatural and often inhumane conditions. 

• Over 80 billion land animals are slaughtered each year for food
• Factory-farmed pigs are kept in cages so small they can’t turn around
• Male chicks in the egg industry are routinely killed at birth 

Every plant-rich meal you choose helps reduce demand for factory-farmed animals and supports more ethical and sustainable food systems. 

Food security/equity 

Although this may be the one of the four big reasons that participants know least about, food equity and sustainability is certainly no less important! To feed 10 billion people by 2050 we will need to double our current food supply.  Yet, as our population increases, available land, water, energy, and other finite resources decrease. To meet the growing demand under our current diets and food systems, we would have to clear most of the world’s forests, empty the oceans, and use all of our fresh water reserves – which is currently happening.

Why?  The resources required to raise animals and process them into food products is much higher than the resources required to produce most plant-based foods. Truth is, that feeding the world without destroying our planet will require nothing short of a new agricultural & cultural revolution – with all of us eating a lot less meat and animal products.  No Meat May is a great way to start your personal revolution. 

What Do You Get When You Sign Up for No Meat May? 

One of the best things about No Meat May is that you’re never alone as you take the challenge. As soon as you sign up, you’ll receive free expert guidance, meal plans, and support from an incredible online community to make your journey easier and more fun.  Who doesn’t need Twenty-Three Thousand cheerleaders in their corner?  

What else is Included in the Free No Meat May Program? 

• Weekly Meal Plans – Delicious, easy-to-make recipes from some of the best recipe creators around the world.
• Community Cookbook – Tried and tested recipes submitted by prior years’ challenge participants and shared with you. They’ll keep you inspired!
• A Veg Starter Kit – A comprehensive guide covering nutrition, cooking tips, plant-based swaps and tips for grocery shopping. 
• Nutritional Advice from experts – Insights from Accredited Dietitians, Doctors and other Health Professionals to ensure you stay healthy and meet your nutritional needs. 
• Impact Tracker – You get to see how much water, land, and CO2 emissions you’ve saved by going meat-free. 
• Community Support – An inspiring Facebook group where participants share recipes, motivation, and cheer you on.  
• Live Webinars & Cooking Demos – Learn from expert chefs and nutritionists on how to cook delicious plant-based meals. 

No Meat May has never been about perfection; it’s about gradual progress and the creation of a community of people who want to be the very best version of themselves. Whether you’re trying one meat-free meal a day or committing fully for 31 days, everyone’s effort counts. 

Common Questions About No Meat May 

1. Do I have to go fully vegan?
   Nope! The challenge is about cutting out meat—but one in three choose to try dairy-free and egg-free options too, there’s plenty of support for that. Many participants sign up each year to take their journey one step closer to how they want to live.
2. What if I slip up?
   No Meat May is judgment-free! If you accidentally slip up and eat meat, just continue the challenge as soon as you can, it’s all about learning and making progress. 
3. Is it expensive to eat plant-based?
   Not at all! Many plant-based staples (like beans, lentils, rice, and veggies) are actually cheaper than meat. 
4. What if I’m too nervous to sign up? Every party is better with friends. You can create a team when you sign up and challenge other to join you!

Join the Movement – Sign Up for No Meat May Today! 

Every May, thousands of people around the world take part in No Meat May, and you can too! Whether you’re doing it for your health, the planet, or the animals, this challenge is a fun, eye-opening experience that can positively impact your life. Already plant-based? Nice work! You can still get involved and challenge those around you who are ready to (or need to) join No Meat May! This May let’s inspire a healthier, kinder, and more sustainable world!