December 2024
Karen Ensle, EdD, RDN, FAND, CFCS, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County
At this time, about 39% of US adults are making an effort to eat more plant foods. Our former meat-based diet has been modified even in fast food chains to include veggie burgers. Have you looked at the milk refrigerator in your local supermarket or corner store? Plant-based milk products dominate the shelves. Perhaps Michael Pollan in 2009 hit the nail on the head with his plant-based recipes. Take a look at Web MD and the emphasis on plant-based recipes.
Plant-based Diets Affect More than Personal Health Around the World
Take a look at all the impacts of plan-based diets from the World Resource Institute's Better Buying Lab and take a look at climate-friendly diets, food security, food loss and waste, equity and governance. Plant-based foods are at the top of the list.
Research indicates that consumers prefer the term plant-based to vegan because consumers think foods that are 'plant-based' are more flexible and taste better when compared to vegan options.
The certified plant-based logo may have broader appeal than the vegan "stamp" which was launched in 2018 and promotes animal-free foods. This appeals to flexitarians and those trying to eat less meat and more produce, grains, etc. All around food service in restaurants, fast food chains, schools and personal households see growth in eating more plant-based diets.
Different Definitions for Different Purposes
Continue to learn more about plant-based diet and the positive effects it has on personal health, climate, environment, costs and overall well-being for kids and adults. Take small steps to eat healthy and fill at least half your plate with fruit and veggies. Enjoy a healthier 2025!