Unlike for our ancestors, plants can provide all the nutrients we need
Yet, worldwide, average meat consumption per person is higher than ever
As the global population grows and natural resources wane, how sustainable is this trend?
A special issue of the journal animal gathers seven articles that explore that question with respect to livestock production
Collectively, they provide a data-driven basis for establishing sustainable livestock practices
The research topics covered include the link between livestock and human health
The importance of ruminant animals in transforming indigestible plant matter into high-quality food
And the trade-offs to consider in minimizing the environmental footprint of livestock production
Although not exhaustive, the gathered articles provide a useful look at the current state of livestock production
And what the future could hold
Editorial: Gill et al. "Livestock production evolving to contribute to sustainable societies." animal