This week steak was voted as the nation's favourite beef dish, particularly amongst those aged 18 to 24. At the same time new research by Datamonitor Consumer predicts the decline of the high protein trend within the next five years. So, has meat consumption reached its peak and if so, what can we do about it?

This subject will be addressed in two free seminars by Professor David Hughes and Professor Ralph Early at this summer’s Meatup and Food Science and Technology Show.

Professor Ralph Early will discuss whether meat consumption should be reduced.

Professor Ralph Early.

Ralph Early said he wants to present the fact from the fiction: “The production and consumption of meat are frequently attacked as being unethical, unhealthy and environmentally disastrous,” he said. “National food security demands that we learn to separate the truths from the myths.”

Melanie Felgate, senior analyst for Datamonitor Consumer said: “Protein claims will continue to attract consumers in the immediate future, but we will soon start to see a shift towards innovation which combines the benefits of protein with fibre."

She added: "Sources of protein will also change, as consumers switch to beans and pulses which naturally offer the benefits of fibre and protein in one.”

Professor David Hughes will discuss whether meat consumption has peaked.

Professor David Hughes.

To join in with the debate pre-register for the show here.

For details of the full seminar programmes click here.

This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.