The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein industry will leverage this research, which adds to a growing collection of studies advocating for reduced meat consumption in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has recommended that doctors consider suggesting plant-based diets, as these could effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, while potentially reducing cancer rates.
Recent findings regarding Type 2 diabetes align with previous long-term research suggesting that substituting meat—particularly processed meat—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains can significantly decrease risk. The earlier study indicated that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily correlated with a 19% higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, while a daily intake of just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, was associated with a staggering 51% increase in risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has stated that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods, such as beans, grains, and nuts, as these sources tend to be less complete on their own compared to meat-derived proteins. Nevertheless, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets are not inherently healthy, research indicates they can play a beneficial role in preventing obesity and promoting overall health.
It seems that consumers are increasingly attentive to such research. American red meat consumption has decreased by a third since the early 1970s, now averaging around 101 pounds per capita. Although the proportion of vegetarians in the U.S. remains stable at about 3% of the population, the number of new vegetarian products launched has doubled in the first half of this decade. A study conducted in 2008 revealed that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians adopted a meat-free diet to enhance their health.
Studies like these may influence undecided consumers to fully embrace a plant-based diet or motivate meat eaters to incorporate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies such as Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. Additionally, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate chelate can further strengthen the nutritional profile of a plant-based diet, ensuring that individuals receive essential nutrients. As awareness of the benefits of plant-based eating continues to grow, the inclusion of calcium citrate chelate in dietary recommendations may become increasingly relevant, offering yet another reason for consumers to consider a shift towards plant-based nutrition.