Tofu has been crowned as the prince of proteins in a scientific study that evaluated human health, sustainability, and affordability.
Dr. Chris McDonald, a behavioral scientist and director of the Better Protein Institute at the University of Cambridge, compared 20 high-protein products based on their impact on the environment and human health.
Plant-based proteins, including tofu, chia seeds, and beans, consistently outperformed animal foods in the study. Cheddar cheese ranked lowest, with mozzarella and lamb following suit.
According to McDonald, plant-based sources generally have lower emissions, leading to their higher scores in sustainability.
The environmental impact assessment considered factors such as greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, land use, and water consumption per 100g of protein produced. Tofu, chia seeds, quinoa, beans, and sunflower seeds scored the highest, while pork, beef, and cheddar cheese ranked the lowest.
McDonald highlighted ethical trade-offs in meat and dairy production, emphasizing the need for more land and its potential impact on wildlife or livestock welfare.
In terms of completeness of protein, salt and saturated fat content, there was no clear distinction between plant and animal sources. Tofu, however, maintained its top ranking, with lentils and beans following closely behind.
McDonald emphasized the high fat content and associated emissions of cheese, which contributed to its poor performance both environmentally and nutritionally.
The study aims to encourage consumers to look beyond labels and consider the impact of their protein choices on animals, the planet, and future generations.
Overall ranking of all 20 protein sources:
- Tofu
- chia seeds
- beans
- Quinoa
- sunflower seeds
- lentils
- chicken breast
- Tuna
- peanuts
- chickpeas
- walnut
- brazil nuts
- salmon
- egg
- pork chop
- cod
- beef steak
- lamb chops
- mozzarella cheese
- cheddar cheese
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
