Plant-based meats have gained popularity for their health benefits, but they still face a stigma due to being labeled as “ultraprocessed.” Experts argue that while some plant-based meat alternatives may be high in salt and saturated fat, others can be healthy options when carefully chosen.
According to Roberta Alessandrini, director of the Dietary Guidelines Initiative at PAN International, doctors and dietitians are reluctant to recommend plant-based proteins due to their perceived ultraprocessed nature. However, she notes that these foods can be a valid way to shift towards more plant-forward diets.
Studies have shown that eating a plant-first diet can reduce the risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, memory loss, depression, and breast cancer. The Mediterranean diet is an example of a plant-based diet that has been widely recognized for its health benefits.
The issue of salt and saturated fat in plant-based meats is also a concern. However, manufacturers have made efforts to reformulate their products with lower sodium and saturated fat content. For example, Impossible Foods has reduced the saturated fat content in its flagship product by 33% compared to traditional beef.
Nutrition experts recommend choosing plant-based meats that meet certain criteria, such as having less than 25% saturated fat, being low in sodium, and containing healthy fats like avocado oil or nuts. Dr. Walter Willett, a leading nutrition researcher, suggests looking for products with around 1 milligram of sodium per calorie and opting for ones that are price-competitive with traditional meat.
Despite the challenges, experts believe that plant-based meats can play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting healthier eating habits. As the demand for sustainable food options continues to grow, manufacturers will need to adapt their products to meet consumer demands while maintaining their nutritional quality.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/21/health/plant-based-meat-benefits-wellness