Global greenhouse gas emissions from animal-based foods are twice those of plant-based foods

Summary

This global analysis, published in Nature Food, presents evidence that animal-based foods generate approximately twice the greenhouse gas emissions of plant-based foods when assessed across their full supply chains. The study synthesises emissions data across diverse farming systems and geographies to establish comparative baselines. As suggested by the title, the findings support a quantifiable climate argument for dietary shifts toward plant-based protein sources, though the magnitude and robustness of this 2:1 ratio may vary by food type, production geography, and accounting methodology.

UK applicability

The findings are relevant to UK climate and food policy discussions, particularly around agricultural emissions reduction targets and dietary guidance. However, application to UK-specific farming contexts may require adjustment for regional production practices, feed sourcing, and land-use patterns that differ from global averages.

Key measures

Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions (likely in CO₂-equivalents per kilogramme or per nutritional unit) across food categories

Outcomes reported

The study quantified and compared lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions across animal-based and plant-based food products globally. It assessed whether emissions from animal-derived foods are substantially higher than those from plant-derived alternatives.

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