Meat and Dairy Intake in Switzerland Far Exceeds Planetary Health Limits, National Data Shows

A recent analysis of national nutrition data in Switzerland reveals that Swiss adults consume significantly more meat and dairy than the recommended levels set by the EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet. The study, based on the menuCH survey conducted in 2014-2015, found that meat intake was at 850% of the recommended target, while dairy consumption was at 363%. In contrast, legume intake was only 4% of the recommended level, indicating a significant shortfall in this category.


The study also showed that grains and fish consumption in Switzerland came closest to the recommended levels, while legumes and unsaturated oils fell far short. Men consumed more meat than women, while women had higher intakes of fruits and nuts and showed higher overall adherence to the Planetary Health Diet Index. The researchers suggest that a shift towards more plant-based foods could improve alignment with health and environmental sustainability goals, highlighting the need for changes in dietary habits to promote better health outcomes and reduce the environmental impact of food consumption.