India’s idli, chana masala, rajma and chicken jalfrezi are among the top 25 dishes causing the most damage to biodiversity, scientists have said after assessing the “biodiversity footprints” of 151 popular dishes from across the world. The scientists have assigned the highest biodiversity footprint score to lechazo, a roast lamb recipe from Spain, followed by four beef or meat preparations from Brazil. ADVERTISEMENTVegan and vegetarian dishes in general had — as expected — lower biodiversity footprints than dishes that contained meat. But, the researchers said, it was surprising to find that dishes with rice and legumes as main ingredients also had high biodiversity footprints. Baguettes, pureed tomato sauce and popcorn are among other dishes with the lowest biodiversity footprints.

Source: The Telegraph February 22, 2024 14:26 UTC