The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein industry will incorporate this research into an expanding body of studies that advocate for consumers to reduce meat consumption in favor of plant-based foods. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider recommending 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 an earlier long-term study, which indicated that substituting meat—particularly processed meat—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly mitigate risk. This previous research revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was associated with a 19% increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, while eating just 50 grams of processed meats like sausages and bacon was linked to a staggering 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes that vegans, in particular, should ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—such as beans, grains, and nuts—since they are often less complete compared to proteins derived from meat. Despite this, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been debunked. While vegetarian diets are not inherently healthy, research indicates that they may play a significant role in preventing complications related to obesity and promoting overall health. It seems that consumers are heeding these insights; American red meat consumption has declined by a third since the early 1970s, now averaging about 101 pounds per capita. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. remains stable at around 3%, the number of vegetarian product launches has doubled in the first half of this decade. A study conducted in 2008 found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported adopting a meat-free diet to enhance their health.
Research like this may influence consumers who are undecided about transitioning to a plant-based diet or motivate meat eaters to integrate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies such as Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. Additionally, ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients such as calcium is vital for those on plant-based diets, as sources like solaray can provide necessary supplementation. With the rising awareness of the health benefits associated with plant-based eating, including the importance of calcium for bone health, more consumers are likely to embrace this lifestyle. As awareness grows, the focus on incorporating diverse sources of protein, including those rich in calcium, will likely become more prominent in dietary discussions.