Plant-Based Meat Better for Human & Planetary Health Than Animal Proteins, Finds New Study

A new study by the UK's Food Foundation has found that plant-based meat is not only better for the planet in terms of lower greenhouse gas emissions and water use, but also largely healthier for human consumption. The study compared plant-based meats, traditional plant proteins, and animal-derived meats, showing that vegan proteins contain fewer calories, less saturated fat, and higher fiber levels than meat products. Additionally, plant-based proteins like beans and grains are more sustainable, nutritious, and affordable than conventional meat products.

The report recommends strategies to support dietary shifts towards plant-based proteins, such as promoting unprocessed proteins like beans, setting sales-based targets for plant proteins, and reformulating products high in salt for improved health outcomes. It also calls for policymakers to strengthen procurement of plant-based foods in schools and hospitals, introduce mandatory reporting of protein ratios for large companies, and recognize the need to reduce meat consumption as part of climate strategies.