Do We Really Smell Like That? Does Humanity Smell Like Meat?

The Young Vegan
Oct 21
3 min read

Updated: Nov 5

"I realised it was humanity on that bus that smelled like meat."

This week, we have a post from guest blogger, C.E. Schwilk. If you enjoy her writing, head over to her Substack for more C.E. Schwilk.

It’s been a long time—over 20 years—and the details are fuzzy. However, I vividly remember the moment I stopped eating meat and noticed the smell.

It was early in the morning, and I was heading to work. I hopped on my bus and could distinctly smell hamburger meat. It wasn’t from someone with a fast-food bag for breakfast. It didn’t smell raw, either. It was more like meat that had been sitting out for a while, reminiscent of burgers at a BBQ picnic, with no other smells to interfere. It wasn’t an awful smell—not rancid or “off”—just strange. Who was hiding hot burgers for their morning commute?

Passengers inside a bus, some standing and holding onto straps. A woman checks her phone, others sit or look out. Mood is calm and focused. — It all started with a bus journey

Does Humanity Smell Like Meat?

I sat down, wondering where the smell was coming from. I was not bothered by it, but I was getting slightly hungry. What was happening?

That’s when I realised it was humanity on that bus that smelled like meat. I’m pretty confident everyone on that bus ate meat—that’s just the American culture. Being in Portland, Oregon, there may have been at least one vegetarian in the mix, but even then, it was more than likely not.

I’ve always heard, “You are what you eat,” and here it was, staring me in the face, or rather attacking my nostrils! Even when I resumed eating meat, I remember another moment where I sniffed my own palms and realised I smelled like pepperoni. As fascinating as I found it at the time, I also experienced cognitive dissonance. I wondered if I shouldn’t be smelling like that.

Do We Really Smell Like That?

My pathway to veganism was definitely long and meandering. Although I was plant-based for several years, I always returned to the convenience of unconscious eating of animals. I’m ashamed to say it’s easy to do when you are surrounded by it, and no one bats an eyelash.

It’s different when you consciously choose not to eat animals. Then, the questions and worries come from friends and family. “Are you getting enough protein?” “You need meat for a balanced diet!” “I heard it’s not healthy to just eat vegetables.” “What about cow’s milk?” These are just a few of the misinformed, albeit sometimes well-meaning, statements about what you’re doing.

The Nutritional Truth

The animals we eat are actually fed plants—mostly soy and grains. You can get pretty much all your nutrients from plants, fruits, and grains. Animal protein isn’t necessary anymore, and it’s healthier to avoid animal fat. Science has confirmed this in multiple studies.

Veganism isn’t just about what you eat; it’s also about how you choose to treat all animals that exist in this world. Be kind. Factory-farmed animals don’t have the choices we humans do. Consider going vegan—for the animals, for the planet, and for yourself.

The Environmental Impact of Veganism

One of the most significant benefits of adopting a vegan lifestyle is its positive impact on the environment. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation, water depletion, and greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing plant-based foods, we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Sustainable Eating Choices

When we embrace a vegan diet, we make conscious choices that benefit not only our health but also the planet. Eating seasonal and local produce can further enhance the sustainability of our meals. It’s about making informed decisions that align with our values.