Hot Take: Eating a vegetarian diet is simpler than it’s made out to be.

Zosia: Many people claim that they could never live on a purely vegetarian diet, for reasons of either convenience, satisfaction, or nutrients, despite there being plenty of plant-based options for nearly every type of meal. An estimated 15% of the global population nourish themselves based on a primarily vegetarian diet. Although not everyone needs to omit meat from their diet, eating occasional alternatives can significantly lower carbon emissions.

Mark: While plant-based diets are a great way to better one’s health, it is not the most optimal way that a human should be living. Protein is one of the building blocks of life that we need in order to survive, but if we cut out meat which is the rest of the 85% of the global population’s main source of protein, the sudden absence of meat can lead to disturbing effects and can even lead to malnutrition. Moreover, while carbon emissions can be a problem, omitting meat from people’s diet doesn’t mean that it will drastically decrease the conflict. Instead, we should focus more on finding replaceable energy for fossil fuels, which is the #1 factor responsible for carbon emissions.

Zosia: Undoubtedly the most asked question vegetarians receive is, “how do you get enough protein?” Although a valid question, vegan and vegetarian protein options are simpler to prepare and obtain than their carnivorous counterparts. Tofu and tempeh, soy products, are as easily prepared and equally as tasty as different types of meat. If soy protein lacks availability, legumes, eggs, and dairy products offer simple access to not only protein, but also vital minerals and nutrients. Any nutrient found in meat can easily be fortified with vegetarian alternatives. B12 is the only notable vitamin which isn’t found in meat but can easily be supplemented with vitamins.

Mark: Although it is true to say that vegetables can replace the nutritional value of meat, the protein that you obtain from consuming plant-based foods is incomplete. It lacks several of the essential amino acids that the human body needs in order to function properly and evolve. Meat allows for the consumption of complete proteins, providing the nine essential amino acids that our body needs in order to function. Moreover, it has been proven that plant-based protein has provided less anabolic properties than animal proteins. While the benefits of plant-based proteins shouldn’t be ignored, carnivorous protein is far superior in terms of delivering the essential amino acids and nutrients that we need. 

Zosia: Carnivorous proteins do have higher levels of certain necessary amino acids and vitamins, but that doesn’t make a vegetarian diet any less accessible. Meat doesn’t have to be completely exiled from one’s diet. Instead, being more mindful and using alternatives when fitting or convenient can significantly lower one’s carbon footprint. Something as simple as ordering beans instead of meat at Chipotle or opting for the occasional veggie burger can make change without any nutritional loss.

Do you have a Hot Take? Inspired by the hit short-form show SubwayTakes hosted by comedian Kareem Rahma, this new brand-new column will offer a space for some open dialogue about a topic you’re particularly passionate about. Similarly to the show itself, if you are someone with a hot take, please message Zosia @ bowluk9777@oshkosh.k12.wi.us and see if you can get on the same page. 

The take must be original and should be something you’re eager to speak on; this makes for the best and most interesting argument. 

Of course the objective of this column is to be a light hearted space to voice a fun conviction, and although any topic is up for discussion, talking points shouldn’t incite violence, inspire hate speech, or instill fear. 

by Zosia Bowlus-Jasinski

Published March 2, 2026

Oshkosh West Index Volume 122 Issue V