Over the past four decades IKU has been serving plant-based meals to Australians. The first IKU cafe opened our doors in 1985, since then we’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in the way people perceive and adopt our chosen diet. What was once considered a niche lifestyle choice has now become a mainstream movement with significant implications for health, the environment, and animal welfare. 

Here, we explore the five key changes in global attitudes toward plant-based diets that have shaped this evolution.

1. Increased Health Consciousness

Forty years ago, plant-based diets were often associated with fringe health movements or specific cultural practices. Ken, one of our founders, was one who was alive to the benefits of plant-based living. Suffering from chronic fatigue he turned to a plant-based diet in desperation, and made a full recovery, so opened IKU to help others trying to make the same change.

Today, there's a widespread recognition of the health benefits associated with plant-based eating. Extensive research has demonstrated that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. This growing body of evidence has prompted many individuals to adopt plant-based diets not just for ethical reasons but for their health. Public health campaigns and endorsements by health organizations have further reinforced the message that plant-based diets are a key component of a healthy lifestyle.

Think back to the middle of the 20th Century, with the social awakening to the science around cigarettes. This is what we’re going through today with diet.

2. Growing Environmental Awareness

Environmental concerns have significantly influenced the shift towards plant-based diets. In the past, the environmental impact of food choices was not widely discussed. However, today's global awareness of climate change and environmental degradation has brought the sustainability of our food systems to the forefront. The livestock industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. Consequently, many people are turning to plant-based diets as a way to reduce their ecological footprint. More recently, high-profile documentaries and reports have highlighted the environmental benefits of reducing meat consumption, spurring a growing number of eco-conscious consumers to embrace plant-based options.

3. Ethical Considerations and Animal Welfare

Ethical concerns regarding animal welfare have always been a cornerstone of the plant-based movement, but the conversation has broadened and deepened over the years. Advances in technology and the proliferation of social media have exposed the realities of factory farming to a global audience. Graphic footage, investigative reports, and campaigns by animal rights organizations have raised awareness about the cruelty and ethical issues inherent in conventional animal agriculture. This has led to a significant increase in the number of people adopting plant-based diets to avoid contributing to animal suffering. The rise of ethical consumerism reflects a broader societal shift towards compassion and humane treatment of all living beings.

4. Innovative Plant-Based Foods

The culinary landscape for plant-based diets has undergone a dramatic transformation. Four decades ago, plant-based eating was often perceived as bland or limited. Today, innovation in food technology and culinary arts has resulted in a plethora of delicious and satisfying plant-based options. From meat substitutes that mimic the taste and texture of real meat to gourmet plant-based dishes crafted by top chefs, the variety and quality of plant-based foods have never been better. This culinary revolution has made it easier and more appealing for people to adopt plant-based diets, proving that you don't have to sacrifice flavor or enjoyment for health and ethical reasons.

5. Mainstream Acceptance and Availability

Perhaps the most significant change is the mainstream acceptance of plant-based diets. What was once a marginal lifestyle choice has become widely accepted and even celebrated. Supermarkets, restaurants, and fast-food chains now offer a variety of plant-based options, making it more convenient than ever to choose a plant-based meal. Influencers, celebrities, and athletes endorsing plant-based diets have further normalized and popularized the movement. This widespread acceptance is reflected in the booming plant-based food market, which continues to grow at an impressive rate, driven by consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable, and ethical food choices.