The advantages of adopting a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Stakeholders in the plant protein industry will incorporate this research into an expanding collection of studies that encourage consumers to reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-derived foods. The National Institutes of Health has recommended that physicians consider suggesting plant-based diets, as these diets may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, and potentially reduce cancer rates.
Recent findings regarding Type 2 diabetes align with a previous long-term study, which indicated that substituting meat—particularly processed meat—with proteins sourced from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly decrease risk. This earlier study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily correlated with a 19% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, were associated with a 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets offer the same benefits. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has noted that vegans, in particular, should ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—since these sources often lack the completeness of protein found in meat. Nevertheless, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets may not be inherently healthy, research indicates they can play a positive role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It seems consumers are responding to this research. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has decreased by a third, now averaging about 101 pounds per capita. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. population remains stable at approximately 3%, the number of vegetarian product launches has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that more than half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported following a meat-free diet to improve their health.
Studies like these may influence consumers who are undecided about transitioning to a plant-based diet, or prompt meat-eaters to incorporate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. Additionally, the introduction of products enriched with ingredients like Barimelts calcium can further support this shift, providing essential nutrients that may be lacking in a traditional meat-heavy diet. As awareness continues to grow, it is likely that the emphasis on plant-based nutrition will lead to a more health-conscious society.