Bowel Cancer Australia will run Meat Free Week for the sixth consecutive year this month – designed as a fund raiser and to encourage consumers to reconsider their dietary choices.
Bowel Cancer Australia’s National Community Engagement Manager, Claire Annear said: “By taking part in Meat Free Week we hope people will consider how much meat they’re eating during the other 51 weeks in the year and be in a better position to make more informed choices.”
According to Annear, most Australians are eating large quantities of meat, and not enough fruit and vegetables – despite the rising popularity of veganism in the country.
Health risks
The press release from the non-profit clearly outlines the correlation between meat and bowel cancer.
According to Bowel Cancer Australia: “There is convincing evidence that a high consumption of red meat and processed meat increase bowel cancer risk.
“Studies show that bowel cancer risk increases by 12% per 100g of red meat consumed per day and by 16% per 50g of processed meat consumed per day.”
Support
The annual challengehas been backed by a number of famous faces, including Paul, Mary, and Stella McCartney and mostly meat-free chef Simon Bryant.
Those who wish to donate to Bowel Cancer Australia are able to do so here.