Socioeconomic and Cultural Barriers to the Adoption of Plant-Based Diets
Keywords:
Plant-based diets, socioeconomic barriers, cultural norms, behaviour change, sustainability, health equityAbstract
The transition to plant-based diets is widely recognized as a key strategy for mitigating climate change, improving population health, and promoting sustainable food systems. However, adoption remains limited, particularly among lower socioeconomic groups. Using the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework, this review synthesizes findings from 36 peer-reviewed studies (2018–2022) to identify major barriers to plant-based diet adoption. Eight core categories emerged: taste and palatability concerns (68.5%), economic constraints (62.3%), cultural and social norms (58.7%), nutritional knowledge gaps (54.2%), limited product availability (48.6%), family dynamics (45.3%), convenience barriers (42.8%), and health concerns (38.5%). Adoption disparities were evident, with rates of 18.5% among high-income populations versus 6.8% among low-income groups. While whole-food plant-based diets can be more affordable, processed alternatives remain costly, limiting access. Cultural traditions, meat-centric identities, and social stigma further impede uptake.
The BCW framework highlights deficits in capability, opportunity, and motivation as central intervention points. Recommended strategies include subsidizing plant-based staples, expanding nutrition education, developing culturally relevant recipes, improving access in underserved areas, and using targeted social marketing. Overall, multi-level, equity-focused interventions are required to support widespread and inclusive transitions to plant-based diets.
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