The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Those involved in the plant protein industry will incorporate this research into an expanding array of studies advocating for consumers to reduce their meat intake in favor of plant-based options. The National Institutes of Health has provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to consider recommending plant-based diets, as they may effectively lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, while potentially reducing cancer rates. Regarding Type 2 diabetes, the latest findings align with an earlier long-term study that indicated substituting meat—particularly processed meats—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains could significantly decrease risk. This research revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was linked to a 19% increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, while 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, correlated with a 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets are created equal. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has noted that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—like beans, grains, and nuts—since these sources are often less complete than meat-derived proteins. Nevertheless, the notion that vegetarians must combine proteins at every meal has long been disproven. While vegetarian diets may not automatically be healthy, research indicates they can play a positive role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
It seems consumers are increasingly aware of these findings. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has declined by a third, averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians in the U.S. remains steady at around 3%, the launch of vegetarian products has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study revealed that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians adopted a meat-free diet to improve their health.
Research such as this may influence consumers who are undecided about embracing a plant-based diet, or motivate meat eaters to add more vegetable proteins to their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein producers. As part of this movement, products like calcium citrate gummies from Costco have also gained popularity among those seeking to supplement their nutrition while transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle. The growing interest in plant-based diets not only reflects a shift in consumer behavior but also highlights the importance of accessible nutritional options, including those like calcium citrate gummies from Costco, which can support dietary needs as individuals explore more plant-oriented eating habits.