The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Stakeholders in the plant protein industry will leverage this research to bolster the increasing evidence that consumers should reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has recommended that healthcare providers consider suggesting plant-based diets, as they may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and could even decrease cancer rates. Regarding Type 2 diabetes, recent findings align with a previous long-term study, which indicated that substituting meat—particularly processed types—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly lower risk. This earlier study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was associated with a 19% increased likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes, while eating just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, correlated with a staggering 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has emphasized that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—as these options are generally less complete compared to meat-derived proteins. Nevertheless, the notion that vegetarians must combine different protein sources at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not inherently guarantee health, research indicates they could play a beneficial role in preventing obesity and fostering overall wellness.
It appears consumers are increasingly attentive to this research, as American red meat consumption has decreased by one-third since the early 1970s, now averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. has remained stable at around 3%, the number of new vegetarian products launched has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported adopting a meat-free diet to enhance their health.
Studies like these may persuade undecided consumers to commit to a plant-based diet or encourage meat eaters to integrate more plant proteins into their meals—a trend that companies such as Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. Additionally, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate IV can also support nutrient intake, particularly for those transitioning to a vegetarian lifestyle. This focus on plant-based diets and the importance of maintaining adequate nutrition underscores a significant shift in dietary habits among consumers.