Why do we do that? Catholic Traditions Explained

Question:
Is it true that Friday is still a day of abstinence? If so, why do we eat meat?
Answer:
Church law and practice is universal, but some things can be changed or modified by a conference of bishops with Rome’s approval. Abstaining from meat is a good example. Canon 1251 says, “Abstinence from eating meat or another food according to the prescriptions of the conference of bishops is to be observed on Fridays throughout the year unless they are solemnities.” The bishops in the USA obtained permission from Rome to do penitential and charitable works in place of abstinence on Fridays. Friday should still maintain its penitential character through our personal sacrifices and good works. Our personal practices are not limited or defined by church law.