A study published in Food Frontiers analyzed health outcomes among 3,342 UK vegetarians who consumed plant-based meat alternatives compared to those who did not.

The research found plant-based meat alternative (PBMA) consumers had a 42% higher risk of depression and a 40% lower risk of irritable bowel syndrome. Blood tests showed higher C-reactive protein levels in PBMA consumers (1.76 ± 3.12 mg/L) compared to non-consumers (1.57 ± 3.17 mg/L).

The investigation measured 30 blood biochemistry markers, 168 metabolites, and 2,923 proteins. Results showed PBMA consumers had lower levels of apolipoprotein A, total cholesterol, and HDL, with higher triglycerides (1.57 ± 0.98 vs 1.48 ± 0.88 mmol/L).

The study found no differences between groups in sodium, free sugar, total sugar, or saturated fatty acid intake. PBMA consumers showed blood pressure readings of 130/79 mmHg compared to 129/78 mmHg in non-consumers.

Demographic data indicated PBMA consumers were younger (mean age 52 vs 53 years) and included more males (33% vs 29%). PBMAs contributed an additional 5.3% of energy intake to consumers' diets.

The study had limitations including a predominantly White population and inability to track dietary changes over time.

The University of Surrey School of Biosciences supported the research, with additional funding from the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, and the Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest.