There is a growing debate on the amount of red meat Americans should consume, causing concern for the beef industry.
The United States is gearing up to revise its Dietary Guidelines for Americans next year, which impact nutrition labels, school and hospital menus, and healthcare advice.
The proposed recommendations suggest increasing plant-based foods intake while limiting red meat and starchy vegetables like potatoes. The committee also suggests including beans, peas, and lentils as protein options.
Data shows that most Americans are consuming more meat than recommended, leading to higher protein intake from meat rather than other sources like seafood, nuts, and soy products.
Heather Eicher-Miller, a nutrition science professor at Purdue University and committee member, highlighted the poor diet habits across all demographics in the U.S. during a recent public hearing.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association criticized the recommendations, stating that red meat consumption has decreased while nutrient deficiencies and chronic diseases have risen.
Ethan Lane, NCBA vice president, dismissed the idea that plant-based proteins can replace lean red meat and address nutrient gaps.
The proposed changes aim to promote consumption of plant-based foods to combat diet-related diseases. However, the increased calorie intake from plant-based proteins may be offset by reducing potato and starchy vegetable consumption.
Groups representing potato growers also expressed concerns, noting that the recommendations to decrease starchy vegetable intake contradict the need for increased vegetable consumption overall.
While the committee’s recommendations are pending finalization and review by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the public will have an opportunity to provide feedback within a 60-day period. The new dietary guidelines are expected to be released by the end of 2025.
It remains to be seen whether the recommendations from nutrition experts will be implemented, as previous proposals for reducing alcohol and added sugar consumption were rejected in 2020.