Eating more of this ultraprocessed food is actually good for you and the planet, experts say
How ultraprocessed plant-based meats can benefit your health
- A new report by the Good Food Institute and PAN International highlights the benefits of ultraprocessed plant-based meats, despite their recent decline in popularity.
- Though often viewed with skepticism due to being ultraprocessed, these foods can be a valid way to transition towards plant-forward diets, benefiting both personal health and the environment.
- Plant-based meat alternatives generally possess a superior nutritional profile compared to red meat, containing less saturated fat and more beneficial nutrients such as polyunsaturated fat and fiber.
- However, some plant-based meat products can be higher in sugar and sodium, although the sodium content can be comparable to that of seasoned red meat.
- Choosing plant-based alternatives significantly reduces environmental impact, as the meat industry contributes 16.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions annually.