The Role of Plant-Based Foods and Diets in Health and Nutrition

Plant-based foods and dietary patterns are increasingly recognised within nutrition science for their contribution to both human and planetary health. Emphasising foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, plant-based diets provide a rich source of fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds.

As interest in sustainable nutrition continues to grow, understanding the nutritional composition, health implications, and practical considerations of plant-based diets is becoming increasingly relevant for healthcare professionals. The following educational resources explore the evidence underpinning plant-based nutrition, including key considerations around protein, nutrient adequacy, and plant-based food choices.

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Yogurt with granola and blueberries

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Providing an overview of the role of protein within plant-based dietary patterns, this infographic explores protein quality, amino acid composition, and the contribution of plant protein sources to both human and planetary health. It highlights common plant-based protein foods, addresses considerations around protein adequacy, and summarises the evidence supporting a shift towards greater consumption of plant-derived proteins. The resource can help you better understand the nutritional foundations of plant-based diets and their potential role in supporting sustainable and healthy eating patterns.

>> EXPLORE THE NUTRITIONAL AND PLANETARY CASE FOR PLANT-BASED PROTEIN IN OUR LATEST INFOGRAPHIC

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Vegan Health Food

Two person preparing healthy dish with fresh vegetables in home kitchen

Healthy breakfast bowl with muesli, greek yogurt and berries

Providing a comprehensive overview of the nutritional composition of plant-based dairy alternatives available across Europe, this infographic highlights key considerations around nutrient fortification, protein quality, and micronutrient content, particularly calcium, iodine, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It examines how plant-based drinks and yogurt alternatives compare nutritionally with dairy products and identifies areas where fortification may support nutritional adequacy. The resource can help you better understand the role of plant-based dairy alternatives within balanced and sustainable dietary patterns.

>> COMPARE THE NUTRITIONAL PROFILES OF PLANT-BASED DAIRY ALTERNATIVES ACROSS EUROPE IN OUR LATEST INFOGRAPHIC

Presenting evidence-based protein recommendations across different life stages and population groups, this infographic provides important context for evaluating protein adequacy within plant-based dietary patterns. It outlines current protein requirements for adults, older adults, athletes, and other populations, while demonstrating how protein needs can be assessed using body weight–based recommendations. The resource can help you interpret protein requirements in the context of plant-based nutrition and support evidence-based discussions around dietary protein intake.

>> EXPLORE EVIDENCE-BASED PROTEIN REQUIREMENTS ACROSS THE LIFE STAGES IN OUR LATEST INFOGRAPHIC