New Belgian Dietary Guidelines Recommend Limiting Red Meat and Consuming Legumes Several Times Per Week

Belgium's Superior Health Council has published updated dietary guidelines recommending limiting red meat consumption to 300g per week and processed meat to under 30g per week. The guidelines also advise consuming legumes several times per week, along with whole plant foods, whole grain products, fruits, vegetables, and unsalted nuts daily.

The report suggests choosing vegetable oils high in unsaturated fats, avoiding unhealthy fats, processed foods, salt, sugary drinks, and alcohol. It also recommends consuming milk or dairy products daily, although some have criticized this suggestion in favor of fortified plant-based alternatives. The guidelines align with the plant-forward diet endorsed by the updated Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, aiming to promote health and sustainability goals in Belgium and other countries worldwide.