PAN’s Plant-Forward Approach Featured in Renowned Lancet Journal
“New research highlights innovative ways to address nutrient shortfalls while maintaining the diet's sustainability and health goals.”
A landmark study, "Recommendations to address the shortfalls of the EAT–Lancet planetary health diet from a plant-forward perspective," has been co-authored by leading experts from PAN International and published in the prestigious Lancet journal The Lancet Planetary Health.
In collaboration with ProVeg International, the Human Sciences Research Council of South Africa, Umeå University, and the University of Göttingen, the study addresses key criticisms of the planetary health diet (PHD). It advocates for its plant-forward foundation as essential for both human health and planetary sustainability.
The planetary health diet, proposed by the EAT–Lancet Commission in 2019, is a science-backed framework aimed at transforming global food systems by prioritising plant-based foods—such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes—with limited amounts of animal-source foods (ASF). Despite its global relevance, concerns have been raised about its adequacy in meeting micronutrient requirements, particularly for women of reproductive age, and the potential challenges of its plant-forward approach.
Responding to Criticism with Evidence-Based Recommendations
“Our goal is to make the EAT–Lancet diet practical and accessible by offering clear, actionable recommendations,” said Dr Roberta Alessandrini, co-author and project director at the Physicians Association for Nutrition (PAN) International.
Similarly, co-author Anna-Lena Klapp, a public health nutritionist and Head of Research at ProVeg International, explained, “Nutrient concerns can be addressed through strategies that align with both health and sustainability goals.”
A Vision for the Future
“Plant-based dietary patterns are powerful tools for preventing, managing, and in some cases even reversing many of the world’s most prevalent chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers,” noted Kerstin Plehwe, President of PAN International.
She added, “The evidence is clear: Neither the people nor the planet can afford to default to animal-based solutions. Plant-forward dietary shifts are a speedway to saving lives and safeguarding our planet.”
The authors urge researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to collaborate on solutions that align with the PHD’s vision of sustainable and equitable dietary patterns.
Read the full article for in-depth recommendations and insights:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals