It seems singles aren’t willing to sacrifice sizzling steaks for a lifetime of salads.
More than three-quarters of Canadians would dump a vegetarian if forced to choose between their relationship and meat, according to a recent survey by dating site EliteSingles.
Thankfully, few vegetarians would make that demand of their partner. But the sheer thought of being converted to a meat-free diet is still enough to turn off nearly 20 per cent of Canadian carnivores from dating a vegetarian.
Psychologist Salama Marine, of EliteSingles, admits dating someone with different food preferences can be challenging. She says it’s comparable to inter-faith dating.
What’s at ‘steak?’
The hardest part of “inter-diet” dating for both is cooking together.
“Sharing a meal is really important for couples,” Marine tells Global News.
It’s as intimate as you can get without taking your clothes off, she explains.
Family dinners might be “annoying,” Marine adds, if your date doesn’t eat like everyone else and requires a separate menu.
WATCH: Vegetarian recipes
It might be why fewer meat eaters than vegetarians (86 per cent compared to 90 per cent) are open to a serious relationship with the opposite camp.
It can work, though.
“If you’re in love, you can find a way to adapt to each other,” Marine says.
The survey shows when asked nicely, close to half of meat eaters are willing to go “semi”-vegetarian. One-third would agree not to eat meat in front of their partner.
Close to a quarter would even forgo delicious meat dishes in the name of love.
WATCH: Tips for becoming a vegetarian
Just don’t force it through an ultimatum, if you’re a vegetarian.
“It always makes people unhappy and doesn’t bring anything good.”
And based on the numbers, this is one ultimatum you’ll likely lose.
