AI Vegan nutrition plans lack advice on essential nutrients like vitamin B12, say German researchers.

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Studies & Numbers

German Researchers Uncover Flaws in Vegan Diet Plans by ChatGPT and Gemini

Researchers at the University of Hohenheim and the Max Rubner Institute conducted a study on the suitability of AI chatbots ChatGPT and Gemini (previously Bard) to create meal plans that meet the daily intakes of macro- and micronutrients for different dietary patterns: omnivorous, vegetarian, and vegan. Although the chatbots’ meal plans generally met most dietary reference intakes (DRI), the study found that vegan diet plans “concerningly” lacked advice on essential nutrients like vitamin B12, which is critical for nerve function, blood formation, and neurological processes. The authors explain that ChatGPT suggested using vitamin B12 supplements for vegan diets in five out of 18 instances. Meanwhile, Gemini never recommended them and erroneously included milk products in vegan plans. Sam Tucker, the developer of VEG3, a vegan and animal …

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University of Hohenheim develops fish alternatives made from microalgae

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Algae, Microalgae & Seaweed

Researchers Develop Microalgae-Based Fish Alternatives, Offering “Everything Fish Can & More”

As concerns about overfishing increase, scientists at Germany’s University of Hohenheim are developing microalgae-based fish alternatives. Unlike many plant-based fish products currently on the market, the microalgae-based fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, an important nutrient found in conventional fish. It is also an excellent source of protein and other nutrients, leading the researchers to claim that microalgae “can offer everything that fish can – and so much more”. Other advantages of microalgae include its ability to bind carbon dioxide and the fact that it can be grown regionally, eliminating the need for long-distance shipping. However, there are also some disadvantages; for example, microalgae has a very strong taste of old fish, which could be off-putting for many consumers. To counter this, the researchers …

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Alpro Not M*lk

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Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

European Alt Milk Sales Grow 49% in Two Years, With Germany Leading the Market

A new study by the University of Hohenheim has investigated the acceptance of plant-based milks in six EU countries, as figures reveal that European alt milk sales grew by 49% between 2020 and 2022. Germany was found to have the highest turnover and market potential for milk alternatives, due to high levels of awareness about animal welfare, health, and the environment. Additionally, Germans attach less importance to social and cultural norms than study participants from other countries, making them more willing to try non-traditional foods. Tradition-based obstacles On the other hand, countries such as France, Spain, and Italy have long traditions of consuming cheeses and other dairy products, and consumers from these countries are more sceptical about plant-based products. Many find the taste and mouthfeel …

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