Beans and peas have been identified as the top meat and milk replacements in a recent study conducted by researchers at UCL and the University of Oxford. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, compared various meat and dairy alternatives, including legumes, processed products like veggie burgers and plant milks, and even lab-grown meat.
The research found that unprocessed plant-based foods such as soybeans, peas, and beans offer the best nutritional, health, environmental, and cost benefits when replacing meat and dairy products. By choosing legumes over traditional meat and milk, individuals can reduce nutritional imbalances by half and decrease mortality from diet-related diseases by a tenth in high-income countries like the U.K., U.S., and Europe.
Dr. Marco Springmann, the lead researcher, emphasized the importance of reducing meat and dairy consumption in high-income countries to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and improve overall health. The study highlighted the significant benefits of choosing minimally processed plant-based foods as meat and milk alternatives.
While processed plant-based products like veggie burgers and plant milks also showed benefits in replacing meat and dairy, they were not as effective as unprocessed legumes. Tempeh, a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans, emerged as a surprising runner-up due to its nutritional properties and relatively low cost compared to more processed alternatives.
In contrast, lab-grown meat was found to be the least competitive option, with high costs and environmental impacts similar to beef burgers. Despite the potential for cost and emissions reductions with improved technology, the study suggested that existing alternatives to meat and milk are readily available and affordable without the need for new innovations.
Dr. Springmann emphasized the importance of implementing public policies that support healthy and sustainable dietary choices for all individuals. The study concluded that suitable alternatives to meat and milk exist and can be accessible without relying on new technologies or product development.
For more information, the study titled “A multicriteria analysis of meat and milk alternatives from nutritional, health, environmental, and cost perspectives” can be accessed in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research was conducted by Marco Springmann and his team from UCL and the University of Oxford.
In conclusion, beans and peas have emerged as the best meat and milk replacements based on their nutritional benefits, environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Choosing legumes over traditional meat and dairy products can have a positive impact on health, the environment, and overall well-being.
