Summary
This integrated global modelling study assessed the health and environmental impacts of three contrasting sustainable diet approaches—environmental (plant-based substitution), food security (weight normalisation), and public health (flexitarian, pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan patterns)—across more than 150 countries. The analysis examined nutrient adequacy, mortality risk reduction, and multiple environmental footprints simultaneously. Environmental objectives achieved through replacement of animal-source foods with plant-based alternatives showed particular effectiveness in high-income countries for improving nutrient adequacy and reducing premature mortality.
UK applicability
The UK, as a high-income country, would likely benefit from the plant-based dietary shifts modelled in the environmental scenarios; however, the global modelling framework may not fully capture UK-specific supply chains, seasonal availability, or regional dietary preferences. The findings could inform UK food and health policy, though local validation of nutrient adequacy and environmental footprints under UK conditions would strengthen applicability.
Key measures
Nutrient intake adequacy; premature mortality from nine diet and weight-related risk factors; greenhouse gas emissions, cropland use, freshwater use, nitrogen application, and phosphorus application
Outcomes reported
The study modelled nutrient adequacy, diet-related and weight-related chronic disease mortality, and environmental impacts (greenhouse gas emissions, cropland use, freshwater use, nitrogen and phosphorus application) across three sets of dietary scenarios in over 150 countries.
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