Confusion Over Plant-based Food and Chronic Disease: 90% Want Clearer Labels!

For years, plant-based foods have reigned supreme in the health food arena. Touted for their natural goodness and lack of side effects, they’ve become a staple for many.

However, recent research shows that even plant-based foods, particularly when they’re ultra-processed, might contribute to chronic diseases. This is a stark contrast to the common perception that “plant-based equals healthy.”

This intriguing shift prompted Real Research, an online survey app, to delve deeper into consumer awareness and perspectives on this topic.

Key Findings:

• Despite the awareness regarding the study on plant-based foods linked to chronic diseases, most people still consume plant-based foods.
• Over 60% agree that a plant-based diet doesn’t always equal a healthy diet.
• 9 in 10 show interest in switching to fresh or minimally processed plant-based options.

Are plant-based foods linked to chronic diseases?

The survey revealed that 67.12% of respondents were aware of the emerging research on ultra-processed, plant-based foods linked to chronic diseases. Interestingly, despite this newfound awareness, plant-based options remain popular, with 68.96% reporting consuming plant-based foods.

Is plant-based food healthy?

Further aligning with the concept of plant-based foods linked to chronic diseases, a majority (64.68%) agreed with UK dietician Duane Mellor’s statement that a plant-based diet doesn’t always equal a healthy diet. Sugar, for example, is a prime illustration – it’s plant-based but hardly health-promoting.

Read Also: 31.83% of the Respondents are Dietary Vegans – Survey Results

Do plant-based burgers need a warning label?

The survey also shed light on the marketing of plant-based products. Over half (55.52%) felt food manufacturers do not adequately highlight the health risks associated with ultra-processed, plant-based foods linked to chronic diseases.

Furthermore, a strong majority (89.5%) – combining those who answered “absolutely” and “somewhat” – believe manufacturers should do more to educate consumers on this issue.

Who wants more plants on their plate?

The good news? There’s a strong willingness to shift towards healthier choices. When presented with the possibility of replacing ultra-processed options with fresh or minimally processed plant-based foods, a staggering 91% (combining “highly likely” and “somewhat likely” responses) expressed interest in making this switch.