If you’re tired of this balancing act, I’ve got something for you: ‘Flexitarianism.’ In case you’ve never heard of it, you might be thinking, ‘Great, another food label to worry about!’ But hold up – the flexitarian diet might just be your new best friend if you’re fed up with being boxed into a rigid food identity.

Here’s the deal: Going full-on vegetarian or vegan can feel like strapping on a straightjacket. The moment you declare it, the food police are on high alert, and any slip-up feels like you’ve failed the whole mission. Talk about pressure, right? It’s no wonder so many people just throw in the towel and stick with the same old, same old, thinking, ‘Why even bother?’

Flexitarianism: the best of both worlds

But  let’s face it: our current food production and consumption habits are a hot mess – unsustainable, unethical, and just plain outdated. If more folks shifted towards a plant-focused diet, we could make huge strides for our health and the planet. So, how do we encourage people to rethink their diets without stressing them out or making them feel guilty for that occasional cheesecake?

That’s where flexitarianism comes in – it’s the no-judgment zone you’ve been looking for. Eat more plants, but don’t sweat the occasional burger craving. Sure, it’s technically a label, but one that offers you the freedom to indulge in what you love while still making conscious, planet-friendly choices more often. Perfect for those who want to make a difference without diving headfirst into vegetarianism or veganism. Now that’s a label we can totally get behind!

Because let’s be real – every small step counts, and the flexitarian way is all about progress, not perfection. So why not give it a go?

When do you officially join the flexi club?

So, what is this flexitarian business anyway? While there’s no official definition, a flexitarian is someone who primarily follows a vegetarian or plant-based diet but occasionally includes meat and other animal products. So, let’s say you’re vegetarian most days but decide to indulge in a steak at a BBQ every now and then – that’s flexitarianism in a nutshell.

The term, a blend of “flexible” and “vegetarian,” was first popularized in the 1990s and has since gained traction among those who are conscious of their dietary choices but not quite ready to give up animal products entirely.

But when can you officially call yourself a flexitarian? Is there a secret handshake or a membership card? Not quite. The beauty of the flexitarian diet lies, as the name suggests, in its flexibility – there are no hard-and-fast rules. Some flexitarians might eat plant-based meals most days but indulge in some scrambled eggs or ham on weekends, while others might only eat animal products on special occasions. The key is the intention behind your choices: prioritizing plant-based foods while allowing for occasional indulgences.

To get a pulse on what people really think, we turned to our trusty Formo community on Instagram and Linkedin. Here’s what they had to say:

Instagram Survey:

Do you consider yourself a flexitarian?

Yes: 41%

No: 59%

(Total votes: 166)

If yes, how often do you eat animal products?

Daily: 12%

A few times a week: 40%

Occasionally (once a week or less): 48%

Linkedin Survey:

Do you consider yourself a flexitarian?
Yes: 60%
No: 40%
(Total votes: 172)

The verdict? Flexitarianism is catching on, but everyone’s got their own spin on it. Some flex daily, while others stick to a more laid-back, once-a-week approach. It’s clear that flexitarianism isn’t one-size-fits-all – it’s a spectrum that adapts to individual lifestyles.

So, whether you’re dialing back meat to max once a week or just enjoying a label that lets you savor both steak and salad, flexitarianism is all about striking that perfect balance between enjoyment and mindful choices.

Why flexitarianism makes sense

You might still wonder, what’s all this fuss about flexitarianism? Why are so many people making the switch?

Well, cutting down on animal products makes sense for several reasons:

1. Health Benefits: Research shows that packing your plate with plant-based goodies can slash your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Flexitarians and vegans tend to have lower cholesterol levels and a healthier heart. So, by loading up on fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains, you’re investing in a longer, healthier life while still enjoying a rainbow of flavors.
2. Planet Points: Let’s talk about Mother Earth for a sec. Cutting back on meat and animal-derived foods is like giving her a big, green hug. Livestock farming is a major culprit behind greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and guzzling up water. But by choosing plant-based meals more often, you’re shrinking your carbon footprint and helping the planet breathe easier. Go you!
3. Animal Love: Not ready to go fully vegan? No worries! Every time you skip that burger or opt for a more humane choice, you’re casting a vote for better animal welfare. Factory-farmed meat? Yikes, it’s often linked with pretty grim conditions for animals. But your choices – whether it’s eating fewer animal products or choosing more ethical options – support kinder, more sustainable farming practices and help push the food system toward a more compassionate future.

So, while flexitarianism is all about flexibility, it’s definitely more than just an easy way out. It brings several meaningful benefits, making a real difference without demanding drastic change. Unlike strict diets that can be hard to maintain long-term, flexitarianism is a more sustainable path. It lets you make gradual adjustments instead of overhauling your diet overnight, leading to lasting habits that actually stick.

The Formo Philosophy

At Formo, we celebrate every small step toward a more sustainable diet as a victory. Whether you’re committing to a vegetarian day each week or simply swapping out cow’s milk for oat milk every now and then, these choices add up to significant impacts, both for individual health and the planet.

Our animal-free cheese, crafted from Koji protein, is designed for everyone – from the die-hard vegan to the curious omnivore. We’re not fans of rigid labels that create pressure or guilt. Instead, we invite you to enjoy our delicious products as part of a balanced, flexible approach to eating.

Embrace the flexi life

Feeling inspired to give the flexitarian diet a go? We hope so!

We encourage you to try it out, but don’t worry – there’s no pressure. That’s the whole point!

In a world overflowing with dietary labels and food tribes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. We’re constantly nudged to “choose a team” or slap a label on our diet. While it’s great that our food choices are being scrutinized for the sake of a sustainable and healthy future, too much pressure can lead to frustration or inaction. That’s why we promote a more open, relaxed approach to food and dietary choices.

Flexitarianism strikes the perfect balance – letting you enjoy your favorite foods while still making more mindful, sustainable choices. At Formo, we’re here to support your journey with our delicious, animal-free cheese. Whether you’re vegan, omnivore, or somewhere in between, our products are here for everyone to enjoy. Because, at the end of the day, aren’t we all a little flexi?