Breastfeeding Mothers Warned Against Impact of Plant-Based Meat
Summary
A study from the University of Texas at Austin found that switching from beef to plant-based meat substitutes can change the composition of breast milk in less than a week. This change could affect infant brain and immune development. The study used a controlled diet trial with 24 breastfeeding families.Key Facts
- Researchers conducted a 25-day clinical trial with 24 breastfeeding families.
- The trial compared diets with beef to those with plant-based meat substitutes.
- The study found that breast milk composition changed within six days of changing the diet.
- Milk from mothers eating plant-based substitutes had less long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are important for infant development.
- These substitutes increased saturated fats in breast milk due to oils used in ultra-processed foods.
- About 65% of Americans consumed plant-based meat alternatives in 2025, with 20% doing so weekly and 22% daily.
- Breastfeeding mothers are advised to maintain levels of certain fatty acids, found in sources like fish or algal oils if not consuming animal products.
- The study was funded by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Texas Beef Council, but they did not influence the research methods or outcomes.
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