Prendiamoci cura della Terra

Eating in a reasoned and reasonable way

What role can the consumption of animal-derived foods play in a healthy, balanced, and sustainable diet, considering our health, the planet, the environment, future generations, animal welfare, and workers’ rights?

Stefano Vendrame, nutritionist and science writer, in “Carnivori o vegani?” (Carnivores or Vegans?) aims, as the publisher states on the back cover, to answer 10 questions whose answers will guide the reader toward the ideal diet:
1 – Are humans naturally carnivores or vegans?
2 – Is the consumption of animal products sustainable?
3 – Are red meat and processed meats carcinogenic?
4 – Is it better to avoid drinking milk as adults?
5 – Is cheese truly a good source of calcium?
6 – How many eggs can you eat per week?
7 – Does eating fish pose more risks or benefits?
8 – Will insects and plant-based meats be the food of the future?
9 – Are there deficiencies associated with vegan diets?
10 – Are carnivorous diets beneficial?

Addressing a dispute dominated by opposing ideologies is no easy task. In this engaging essay, the author adopts a neutral, well-researched, and profoundly ethical approach, rigorously analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of both the carnivore and vegan models, providing the reader with a comprehensive, fact-based perspective.
The author thoughtfully explores the heated debate between carnivores and vegans: those who argue that it is human nature to eat meat and animal products primarily and that no viable alternative exists, and those who believe that the optimal diet for our health is based exclusively on plant foods, accusing meat-eaters of harming the planet. Rather than siding with these extreme positions, Stefano Vendrame acknowledges that both perspectives have valid points. The goal, therefore, is not to criticize either side but to learn valuable lessons from both. The aim is not to take sides but to choose wisely and consciously, reducing waste, excess, and environmental impact.

Author: Stefano Vendrame | Publisher: Longanesi, 2025
Pages: 336, Paperback | EAN: 9788830463745

Attraverso dati scientifici, esempi pratici e spiegazioni chiare, vengono smontati falsi miti e convinzioni diffuse su carne, latte, uova e derivati, mostrando come non sia necessario scegliere un estremo per mangiare in modo sano. Con ben informato equilibrio ed eccezionale chiarezza divulgativa, quindi, l’Autore ci offre una documentata ed esaustiva panoramica sulle principali controversie e i tanti falsi miti che circolano sugli alimenti di origine animale. E mentre dirime i troppi dubbi che offuscano e complicano le nostre scelte alimentari, traccia un prezioso manuale di alimentazione, completo delle indicazioni pratiche necessarie per un consumo ragionevole degli alimenti di origine animale: come sceglierli, quanti consumarne e in che modo inserirli nel quadro di un piano nutrizionale equilibrato, proponendo così un modello alimentare basato su moderazione, consapevolezza e rispetto, per unire scienza, etica e piacere del cibo nel quale si tenga ben presente la nostra biologia di animali onnivori.

Using scientific data, practical examples, and clear explanations, the author debunks widespread myths and misconceptions about meat, milk, eggs, and their derivatives, demonstrating that it is unnecessary to choose extremes to eat healthily. With well-informed balance and exceptional clarity, the author provides a well-documented and comprehensive overview of the main controversies and numerous false myths surrounding animal-based foods. While dispelling many doubts that cloud and complicate our food choices, he offers a valuable nutrition guide complete with practical advice for reasonable consumption of animal-based foods: how to select them, how much to consume, and how to incorporate them into a balanced nutritional plan. He proposes a dietary model based on moderation, awareness, and respect, combining science, ethics, and the pleasure of food, while considering our omnivorous biology.

Credits

Author: Anna Lacci is a science communicator and expert in environmental education, sustainability, and place-based teaching. She is the author of documentaries, nature books, workbooks, interdisciplinary teaching resources, and multimedia informational materials.

Translated by Maria Antonietta Sessa