IELTS Band 9 Essay About more and more people are shifting to a plant-based diet
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “More and more people are shifting to a plant-based diet”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Answer (Band 9)
More and more people are shifting to a plant-based diet.
Why is this the case?
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?
In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards plant-based diets, driven by a variety of factors ranging from health consciousness to environmental concerns. This trend reflects an evolving awareness of the impact of food choices on personal well-being, animal welfare, and sustainability. While some critics argue that such dietary changes may have unintended consequences, I firmly believe that the transition towards plant-based eating is overwhelmingly beneficial for both individuals and society.
One of the primary reasons behind the increasing adoption of plant-based diets is the growing body of research highlighting the health advantages of reducing meat consumption. Studies suggest that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and legumes can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Furthermore, the rise in lifestyle-related illnesses has prompted many to reconsider their eating habits, leading them to explore nutrient-dense plant-based alternatives.
Beyond personal health, environmental concerns play a significant role in this shift. Industrial livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water depletion. As climate change becomes a pressing global issue, individuals are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and adopting a plant-based diet is one of the most effective means of doing so. Additionally, ethical considerations regarding animal rights have encouraged many to reject the consumption of meat and dairy products, leading to increased demand for sustainable and cruelty-free alternatives.
While critics argue that plant-based diets may lack essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, advancements in food technology and increased awareness about balanced nutrition have largely mitigated these concerns. Fortified foods and supplements make it easier than ever to obtain necessary nutrients without relying on animal products. Moreover, the diversification of plant-based food options has made this dietary shift more accessible and appealing to a wider population.
In conclusion, the shift towards plant-based diets is a positive development that benefits both human health and the environment. As awareness continues to grow and plant-based food options become more widespread, this transition will likely contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and ethically conscious society.
Vocabulary in the sample for More and more people are shifting to a plant-based diet
- Notable (/ˈnoʊ.t̬ə.bəl/) – The scientist’s discoveries had a notable impact on medical research.
- Awareness (/əˈwer.nəs/) – Public awareness of environmental issues has increased significantly.
- Beneficial (/ˌben.əˈfɪʃ.əl/) – Regular exercise is beneficial for both physical and mental health.
- Primary (/ˈpraɪ.mer.i/) – The primary cause of climate change is human activity.
- Accessible (/əkˈses.ə.bəl/) – Online education has made learning more accessible to people worldwide.
Advanced Grammar Structures
- Complex Sentences with Relative Clauses
- “One of the primary reasons behind the increasing adoption of plant-based diets is the growing body of research highlighting the health advantages of reducing meat consumption.”
- This enhances clarity and coherence, making the argument more compelling.
- Cohesive Devices for Logical Flow
- Words like “Furthermore,” “Beyond,” “Additionally,” and “Moreover” create a smooth and logical flow, improving the essay’s coherence.
- Passive Voice for Emphasis
- “Advancements in food technology have largely mitigated these concerns.”
- This shifts the focus to the action rather than the doer, making the argument more objective.
- Conditionals to Express Possibilities
- “If plant-based food options become more widespread, this transition will likely contribute to a healthier, more sustainable society.”
- This structure helps present logical conclusions and future implications.
Use of Modal Verbs for Nuance
- “Critics argue that plant-based diets may lack essential nutrients…”
- This adds a level of uncertainty, making the argument sound more balanced and well-reasoned.
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