Americans Wrongly Think Plant-Based Diets Are More Expensive, Survey Finds

A recent survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult found that a majority of US adults incorrectly believe that a plant-based diet is more expensive than one that includes meat and dairy. The survey revealed that more than 60% of respondents, especially Baby Boomers, share this view. Despite concerns about high grocery prices, 70% of adults identified meat as their largest grocery expense.

Research has shown that plant-based diets can actually be more affordable than diets that rely on animal products. A study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024 found that a low-fat vegan diet reduced food costs by 19% compared to a Standard American Diet, primarily due to savings on meat and dairy. Other studies have also indicated that individuals following plant-based diets spend less on food, while still reaping the health benefits of weight management and a reduced risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Toledo, a registered dietitian with the Physicians Committee, provided practical tips for consumers looking to save money on groceries without compromising nutrition, such as buying seasonal produce and cooking in batches. Overall, making simple shifts towards a plant-based diet can help individuals save money while improving their health.