Toward Nutritionally Sound Plant-Based Meat Analogues: Expert Consensus from a Delphi Study

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Food Science
• Sustainable Food Systems

Background:

• Plant-based diets are gaining popularity for health, environmental, and ethical reasons.
• Plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs) help meet nutritional needs and consumer preferences by mimicking conventional meat.
• Developing nutritionally balanced PBMAs is crucial for supporting these diets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish evidence-based nutritional recommendations for formulating nutritionally balanced PBMAs.
• To achieve expert consensus on these recommendations across diverse stakeholder groups.
• To provide a framework for industry and regulatory bodies.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi method was employed to reach expert consensus.
• Three stakeholder groups participated: academic researchers, scientific/governmental representatives, and industry professionals.
• Recommendations covered both nutritional content and regulatory aspects.

Main Results:

• Unanimous consensus was reached on 12 nutritional recommendations.
• All groups agreed on limiting sodium and saturated fats.
• Consensus was achieved on including essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Three out of six proposed regulatory recommendations were also agreed upon.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a valuable framework for developing healthier and more sustainable PBMAs.
• These recommendations can guide the food industry in meeting consumer expectations.
• The findings will assist regulatory authorities in setting identity and quality standards for PBMAs.