How to stay meat-free after No Meat May

So, you’ve made it through No Meat May, 31 days of delicious plant-rich eating, and maybe you're feeling pretty good about it. Perhaps you've discovered some delicious new meals, felt lighter on your feet, or even noticed some positive changes in your health.

But how do you keep the momentum going? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with some easy tips to help you stay on track long after No Meat May is over.

1. Take it slow and steady

Transitioning to plant-rich eating doesn’t have to happen overnight. Take your time and gradually incorporate more plant-based meals. If you are feeling resistance from your family, get them to join you with Meatless Mondays and expand from there.

2. Experiment with new recipes  

One of the most exciting parts of eating plant-rich is discovering all the delicious dishes out there. Get creative in the kitchen and try out new recipes each week. Cookbooks, food blogs and our insta feed are your new best friends in the kitchen. Have you downloaded your No Meat May Bumper Cookbook!? (Free when you sign up!)

3. Find plant-based alternatives  

Craving a burger or chicken nuggets? We get it! While whole foods are our focus, there’s always room for 'sometimes foods'. Discover some new delicious meat alternatives that rival animal products. And don’t forget the OG powerhouses: tofu, tempeh, and seitan – packed with protein and nutrients.

4. Stock up on staples

Keep your pantry and fridge stocked with essential ingredients like beans, lentils, quinoa, nuts, seeds, and a variety of fruits and veggies. Having these staples on hand makes it easier to whip up meat-free meals anytime. Check out the Pantry Staples shopping list in our Starter Kit for more ideas!

5. Join online communities

Surround yourself with like-minded people by joining online communities or social media groups focused on eating plant-based. You’ll find support, inspiration, and helpful tips from others who are on a similar journey. If you haven’t joined already, our inspiring No Meat May Facebook Community is a great place to start!

6. Keep on learning

Take some time to learn more about the many benefits of plant-rich eating, both for your health, animals and the environment. Understanding the reasons behind your choices can help you stay motivated and committed to avoiding products made from animals. Our 4 Big Reasons are a good place to start! 

7. Dine out mindfully

Eating out while staying meat-free can be tricky. But it also can be a real joy with a little mindfulness. Look for restaurants with vegetarian or vegan options on the menu, and don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions or modifications. Our favourite website and app, Happy cow, is a great resource that shows plant-based dining locations across the globe!

8. Plan ahead

Planning is key to success. Take some time each week to plan your meals, make a grocery list, and prep ingredients ahead of time. We love to prep curries, dahls, stews, and oats! This will save you time and ensure that you always have healthy options available. 

9. Be kind to yourself 

Remember, nobody’s perfect! If you slip up, don’t beat yourself up... acknowledge the slip, learn from it, remember we live in a meat-centric world and remember your reasons for starting, and get back on track with your meat-free goals.

10. Celebrate your successes  

Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way. Whether it’s trying a new plant-based recipe, hitting a personal milestone, or inspiring others to eat less meat, every small victory is worth celebrating!

So, there you have it—10 simple tips to help you stay meat-free long after No Meat May is over. Whether you’re motivated by health, environmental concerns, or simply a love for incredible food, remember that every meat-free meal you choose makes a positive difference. Keep up the great work, and here’s to a happier, healthier, and more sustainable future for all! 🌱✨