Germany's New Dietary Guidelines Push for a Mostly Plant-Based Future
The German Nutrition Society (DGE) has updated its dietary guidelines for 2024, urging people to shift toward a mostly plant-based diet. Under the new recommendations, three-quarters of food intake should come from plants, with meat consumption capped at 300 grams per week. The changes aim to balance personal health with environmental concerns.
The revised guidelines mark a significant change in how the DGE assesses food. For the first time, climate and environmental impacts have been factored into the advice, drawing on the 'planetary health' concept. This approach links human well-being to the sustainability of food systems.
Meat and dairy now play a much smaller role in the recommended diet. Animal products should make up no more than 25 percent of meals, with dairy and eggs also reduced. Instead, the DGE promotes legumes, nuts, and other plant-based foods as healthier and more eco-friendly alternatives. Research supports this shift, showing that livestock farming uses far more resources and emits more greenhouse gases than plant production.
The DGE suggests an ideal meat intake of just 120 grams weekly, though it allows up to 300 grams. Critics, however, argue that the guidelines may not suit everyone. Some nutrition experts warn that the focus on plant foods could lead to excessive carbohydrate consumption, particularly from grains. The society has clarified that the advice is designed for healthy adults, stressing that vulnerable groups—such as children, the elderly, or those with medical conditions—should seek personalized guidance.
Despite the debate, the DGE maintains that sustainable eating benefits both people and the planet. The organization highlights studies linking plant-heavy diets to lower risks of chronic diseases while also reducing pressure on natural resources.
The updated guidelines set clear limits on meat and dairy while promoting plant-based alternatives. They reflect growing evidence that food choices impact both health and the environment. The DGE continues to emphasize that individual needs may vary, advising tailored support for those outside the general adult population.
