The advantages of a plant-based diet are widely recognized. Participants in the plant protein industry are likely to reference this research as it contributes to a growing collection of studies advocating for reduced meat consumption in favor of plant-based alternatives. The National Institutes of Health has recommended that healthcare providers consider suggesting plant-based diets due to their potential effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and BMI, as well as possibly decreasing cancer rates.
Recent findings regarding Type 2 diabetes align with earlier long-term research, indicating that substituting meat—especially processed meats—with proteins from low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains can substantially lower risk. This earlier study revealed that consuming 100 grams of unprocessed meat daily was associated with a 19% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while just 50 grams of processed meats, such as sausages and bacon, correlated with a staggering 51% higher risk.
However, not all vegetarian diets provide the same benefits. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes that vegans, in particular, need to ensure they consume a variety of protein-rich foods—such as beans, grains, and nuts—because plant proteins tend to be less complete compared to those derived from meat. Nonetheless, the outdated notion that vegetarians must pair proteins at every meal has been thoroughly debunked. While vegetarian diets are not automatically healthy, research indicates they can play a significant role in preventing obesity and enhancing overall health.
Consumers appear to be responding to this research. Since the early 1970s, American red meat consumption has dropped by one-third, averaging about 101 pounds per person. Although the percentage of vegetarians remains steady at approximately 3% of the U.S. population, the introduction of vegetarian products has doubled in the first half of this decade. A 2008 study found that over half (53%) of U.S. vegetarians reported that they adopted a meat-free diet to improve their health.
These studies may influence consumers who are considering a plant-based diet or motivate meat eaters to incorporate more vegetable proteins into their meals—a trend that companies like Tyson are preparing for by investing in alternative protein sources. Furthermore, it is essential for individuals on a plant-based diet to ensure they are getting sufficient nutrients, such as calcium, citrate, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D3, to maintain optimal health. The emphasis on these nutrients highlights the importance of balancing dietary choices, ensuring that individuals receive adequate nutrition from their food sources.