Nutrition

Are plant based foods more nutritional

Image courtesy of ProVeg International

Studies & Numbers

Are Plant-Based Alternatives Healthier? Nutritional Review Offers Surprising Insights

With plant-based foods making their way onto more plates, consumers are asking critical questions: are these alternatives as nutritious as traditional meat and dairy products, and are they healthy? ProVeg International’s latest study takes a deep dive into the nutritional profiles of 422 meat alternatives and 251 plant-based milk products across 11 countries, comparing them to their animal-based counterparts. The findings reveal a complex but encouraging picture. On average, plant-based meat alternatives have a higher nutritional quality than animal-based meat, with significantly lower levels of saturated fat and vastly more fibre. Plant-based meat alternatives also contain good amounts of protein – a nutrient that is often up for question. Plant-based milk also stands out, with lower fat and sugar levels compared to cow’s milk, while …

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German style sausages

Image courtesy of ProVeg International

Health

Report: Plant-Based Meat & Milk Have Similar or Better Nutritional Profiles Than Animal Products

Research conducted by ProVeg International in 11 countries has found that plant-based meat alternatives have a better overall nutritional profile than conventional meat, while milk alternatives have similar nutritional properties to cow’s milk. The survey, the results of which have been compiled in a report, evaluated 422 meat alternatives and 251 milk alternatives in Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, Spain, the UK, and the US. Scoring was based on internationally recognized guidelines — the WHO Nutrients Profile model (NPM), the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, and the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA’s) nutrition claim legislation. Meat alternatives were found to have less saturated fat and significantly more fibre than animal meat, while milk alternatives contained less total fat and less saturated fat …

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animal vs plant proteins

Image courtesy of The Freedom Food Alliance
Health

Upcoming Report to Address “Tidal Wave”of Nutrition Misinformation on Social Media

The Freedom Food Alliance has announced a strategic partnership with Rooted Research Collective to publish a new report titled Nutrition Misinformation in the Digital Age. The report aims to address the spread of inaccurate dietary information on social media, after a recent survey found that 57% of Millennial and Gen Z TikTok users have been swayed by nutrition trends on the platform. A huge 98% of these trends, including extreme ones such as the carnivore diet and liquid cleanses, are said to go against public health and nutrition guidelines. 31% of users who have tried them say they experienced negative health effects. To raise awareness of this issue, the upcoming report will highlight the influence of social media on dietary trends by analyzing the spread …

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Norwegian dietary guidelines

© Helsenorge/Norwegian Directorate of Health
Health

Norway Becomes Latest Country to Recommend Eating Mostly Plants in New Dietary Guidelines

Norway has published updated dietary guidelines that recommend choosing mostly plant-based foods and limiting red and processed meat consumption. The guidelines advise that all meals should include fruits and vegetables, while several servings of whole grains should be eaten each day. Meanwhile, the maximum recommended red meat consumption has been lowered from 500g to 350g per week, and people are advised to eat as little processed meat as possible. The protein group in the food wheel now contains legumes and tofu as well as meat and seafood, and the recommendations suggest replacing some or all of the meat in certain dishes with beans or lentils. Low-fat dairy consumption is still recommended as a source of calcium, but the guidelines acknowledge that plant-based alternatives are a …

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New version of Austrian Nutritional Recommendations

© Fotostudio Mayer mit Hut
Health

Austria Publishes New Nutritional Recommendations That Advise Consuming Predominantly Plant-Based Foods

An updated version of the Austrian Nutritional Recommendations, commissioned by the country’s Ministry of Health, has recommended consuming more plant-based foods and fewer animal products. A new “plate model” published as part of the guidelines suggests that 50% of a person’s diet should consist of fruits and vegetables. Another 25% should be made up of whole grains and potatoes, and the final quarter should consist of predominantly plant-based proteins. For the first time, legumes and legume-based products (such as tofu and soy yogurt) have been given their own category in the new recommendations. Omnivores are advised to eat three servings of these products per week, while vegetarians should eat four. Meat-eaters are also advised not to eat more than three servings of meat and fish …

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Tufts / Tender Food

Tufts / Tender Food

Health

FAIRR & Tufts University Publish Protein Research Paper for Investors, While Tufts Announces “Unprecedented” Cell Ag Hires

The FAIRR initiative — a global network of investors addressing ESG issues in the food system — has partnered with Tufts University to publish a paper called the ‘Protein and Nutrition Research Overview’ for investors. According to the authors, ESG frameworks tend to focus on environmental issues such as carbon emissions without taking nutrition into account, resulting in a tradeoff between health and environmental priorities. However, there is considerable potential for investors to be aligned with both, especially with the rise of “sustainable nutrition” funds. Setting the record straight & debunking misconceptions The new overview outlines major protein sources in food, setting the record straight about their health effects with supporting scientific evidence. It also outlines notable trends, risks, and opportunities in the protein supply …

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New VEGANScreener app

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Health

New VEGANScreener App Screens the Dietary Needs of Europe’s Growing Vegan Population

Are your vegan eating habits leading to any nutritional deficiencies? A team of European researchers has developed the VEGANScreener, a web and app dietary screening tool specifically designed for European vegans.  The tool consists of 29 questions centered around promoting or restricting specific foods and nutrients. It is currently under testing and validation, but the researchers foresee future uses for self-evaluation and healthcare purposes. The development project, also called VEGANScreener, aims to prevent and detect nutritional deficiencies in vegans early on, and promote nutritional awareness and support among vegans, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes within this demographic.  The VEGANScreener project is a JPI HDHL (A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life EU program) funded initiative involving five scientific partners from European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Spain, …

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Close up of woman biting into Planted chicken

© Planted
Studies & Numbers

The “First” Systematic Review of its Kind Explores the Impact of Plant-Based Alternatives on Health & Environment

With the need for food systems and diets to align with global environmental and health goals, plant-based alternatives that mimic animal products provide a convenient option for consumers. But what are the real benefits of these alternatives?  A recent study conducted by researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and published in Nutrition Reviews has found that many plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy have the potential to be healthier, more nutrient-rich, and achieve a net-zero impact on the environment compared to animal-based foods (ABFs). The researchers reviewed more than 90 studies and reports published in the past seven years to assess the benefits of novel food plant-based alternatives (NPBFs) in high-income countries with food security, where meat and dairy consumption tends …

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Studies & Numbers

Could Alternative Proteins Address Undernutrition in Low- and Middle-Income Countries?

A supplement published in Current Developments in Nutrition (a journal of the American Society of Nutrition) has explored the potential of alternative proteins to provide sufficient protein intake for populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) without the negative environmental impacts associated with animal agriculture. The supplement features eight articles discussing different aspects of the topic: Suitability of Alternative Protein Foods for Agroecological Approaches to Address Nutrition in Low- and Middle-Income Countries — Molly Gordon et al. use agroecological principles, which emphasize ecology, local knowledge, and traditions, to determine the suitability of different alternative protein sources in LMICs. Alternative Proteins in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Face Questionable Future: Will Technology Negate Bennett’s Law? — Bennett’s Law states that when incomes rise in developing countries, consumers …

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Fruits/ Vegetables/ Healthy Food

Liliya Trott - stock.adobe.com
Health

New German Dietary Guidelines Recommend Eating at Least 75% Plant-Based Foods

The German nutrition society Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE) has updated its dietary guidelines, taking into account sustainability as well as health. Developed with a mathematical optimisation model, the guidelines recommend that diets should be made up of at least 75% plant-based foods. Legumes (such as beans, peas, and lentils) now have their own separate recommendation, while eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is emphasized more than previously. The guidelines advise that meat consumption should be limited to a maximum of 300g a week, while dairy recommendations have been reduced from three to two daily servings. Plant-based fats such as vegetable oils are preferred over animal sources like butter, while water and unsweetened tea are the recommended beverages. For those who do …

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BMEL Canteen plant-based

© BMEL
Studies & Numbers

Germany’s 2023 Nutrition Report Reveals Only 20% of Germans Consume Meat Daily

Germany’s Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Cem Özdemir, presented the 2023 Nutrition Report today, shedding light on evolving dietary trends and consumer preferences in Germany. This annual report, published by the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL), offers a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s nutritional landscape. A prominent theme highlighted in the report is the growing concern for environmental sustainability in food choices. The study indicates a significant shift in dietary habits, with a decline in the daily consumption of meat. In 2015, 34% of respondents reported eating meat daily, whereas this year, only 20% of individuals reported daily meat consumption. This transformation is coupled with a notable uptick in the consumption of plant-based alternatives. Minister Özdemir emphasized the increasing importance of …

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meati-mushroom-ramen-bowl

© Meati
Health

Physicians Association for Nutrition: Plant-Based Meat is a “Healthy & Sustainable” Alternative to Animal Foods

International NGO the Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) has published a paper outlining its position on plant-based meat products. PAN says it recommends legumes, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, and wholegrains as the healthiest and most environmentally sustainable protein options. However, the organization recognizes that plant-based meat products can provide a “healthy, sustainable and convenient alternative to meat”, particularly for those who have limited time or cooking skills. According to PAN, there can be significant variations in nutritional value between different alt meat brands, and consumers should attempt to choose those which are low in saturated fat and salt. Opting for products that have been fortified with micronutrients such as vitamin B12 is also recommended. The NGO says it supports plant-based meat brands in reformulating and …

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dan-gold-unsplash-courtesy LiveGreen

Image courtesy LiveGreen
Health

Updated Nordic Nutrition Recommendations Advise Plant-Forward Diet With Minimal Meat

The much-anticipated sixth edition of the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) has finally been published, taking into account sustainability as well as health. The report has made headlines by recommending a mostly plant-based diet, rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. It advises that meat consumption should be restricted to a maximum of 350 grams per week, while dairy consumption should be moderate and limited to low-fat products. Alcohol, processed foods, and products high in fat, sugar, and salt should all be kept to a minimum. Along with advising a shift in dietary patterns, the report has increased recommended intakes for nutrients such as vitamin C and folate, while adding recommendations for other nutrients such as vitamin K and choline for the first time. …

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ProVeg NFH egg dishes

Image: ProVeg Internatiional
Egg Alternatives

What’s Driving Consumers to Try Plant-Based Egg Products?

Plant-based eggs are gaining consumer favour. This isn’t a recent development, however, the rate at which the industry is growing is surprising. In its recent New Food Hub article, ProVeg International uncovers the main consumer motivators for plant-based eggs and dives into the micro-drivers within each.  Throughout the piece, ProVeg shares insights to equip businesses with the knowledge they need to understand their consumers and attract them to the blossoming alt-egg market. Consumers value health  Research shows that health is the greatest driver in the plant-based egg market, due to numerous health risks and allergies associated with animal-based eggs, as well as the benefits of consuming plant-based alternatives. Plant-based eggs appeal to health-conscious consumers for a number of reasons: Low to no cholesterol: By swapping …

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Marc Coloma and Bernat Ananos, Heura founders

© Heura
Company News

Heura to Unlock “Unprecedented Nutritional Value” With New Patent-Pending Technology

Heura has announced the development of a new patent-pending technology that claims to make it possible to produce plant-based foods with previously unattainable nutritional values. The Spanish food tech startup says it aims to address unresolved challenges in the plant-based industry, creating a “superior sensorial experience with high value nutritional products” and no additives. The new technology — derived from Heura’s Good Rebel Tech platform, which launched last year — is also said to provide a faster and more efficient way to design and process food products. According to Heura, the proprietary technology uses a novel thermomechanical technique, with heat and mechanical energy used to shape or modify a material’s properties. It is one of numerous innovations developed by Heura’s R&D team; another is an …

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Nutrition Shakes

©Nellson, LLC
Market & Trends

Nutrition Manufacturer Nellson Reports 100% Jump in Demand for Plant-Based Protein

Nellson, LLC, a leading manufacturer and co-packer of nutritional bars and functional powders, reveals customer requests for plant-based protein have doubled in the past four years.  According to a recent report, Nellson, which manufactures branded and private label nutritional bar and functional powders, says customer requests for plant-based protein have risen sharply from 2018, when 20% of its customers requested plant-based protein, compared to 80% for dairy. Today, demand for plant-based protein has increased to 40%, with 60% requesting dairy.  “Today’s consumers are recognizing the nutritional benefits that plant-based products offer and, now more than ever, want plant-based proteins on the ingredient list when purchasing nutrition bars and powders,” said Bart Child, chief commercial officer of California-based Nellson.  Other market research supports this finding. In …

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Actor Idris Elba and Huel CEO James McMaster

Actor Idris Elba & Huel's CEO James McMaster © Huel
Investments & Finance

Huel Raises €24M in Funding Round Backed by Idris Elba & Other Celebrities

Nutritionally complete food specialist Huel has raised €24 million in a funding round to continue its mission of providing sustainable nutrition for all. The new investment will support the company’s R&D, product innovation, online and retail scale-up, and international expansion focused on the US market. Highland Europe led the round, joined by a group of celebrity investors including actor Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina Dor Elba (both UN Goodwill Ambassadors). Other participants included TV presenter Jonathan Ross and Grace Beverley, CEO of sustainable activewear brand TALA. The new investment gives the company a valuation of over €540 million. James McMaster, CEO of Huel, said, “Highland Europe has been a strong backer for our business in the last four years, and we’re delighted about the extra …

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Kate Farms Plant-Based Nutrition

©Kate Farms
Investments & Finance

Kate Farms Closes $75M Series C Round to Expand Plant-Based Nutrition in Hospitals

Kate Farms, a leader in plant-based nutritional formulas, announces it has closed $75M in Series C funding, in a round led by life science investor Novo Holdings. The funding brings the company’s total raise to over $135M, and will be used to fuel additional innovation in the brand’s portfolio, develop new products and enter new market channels. “I’m pleased that… investors appreciate the significant potential of plant-based nutrition and Kate Farms’ leadership in this rapidly growing market” Accessible in over 95% of US hospitals, including top children’s hospitals, Kate Farms produces plant-based, organic and clinically demonstrated formulas for those with chronic illnesses and acute conditions. Its entire product portfolio, used for tube and oral feeding, is USDA organic and non-GMO certified, while being free from common …

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Plant-Based Nutrition Conference

MEGA We Care CEO Vivek Dhawan. © MEGA We Care
Fairs & Events

Pharmaceutical Company Launches “Asia’s First” Accredited Plant-Based Nutrition Conference

Multinational pharmaceutical company MEGA We Care has launched what it claims is the first accredited plant-based nutrition conference in Asia. Asia’s Plant-Based Nutrition Healthcare Conference will feature nine notable speakers such as Dr. Dean Ornish, inventor of the Ornish Diet and winner of the “National Public Health Hero” award from the University of California. Another speaker is multi-award-winning medical professor Dr. Kim Alan Williams, an expert on cardiovascular disease. The speakers will explain how plant-based diets can be used to prevent, manage, and sometimes even reverse chronic disease. Topics will include heart health, brain health, diabetes, gut health, cancer research, paediatrics, and more. Plant-based in Asia The event is timely, since interest in plant-based diets is skyrocketing in Asia. The Asia-Pacific region is set to …

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