Germany's New Diet Rules: 75% Plant-Based for Health and Planet

The German Nutrition Society (DGE) has updated its dietary guidelines to include environmental impact. The new recommendations urge a major shift toward plant-based eating, with meat and dairy playing a far smaller role. Experts argue this approach will benefit both public health and the planet.

The revised guidelines advise that at least 75 percent of a person's diet should come from plant-based foods. Legumes, fruits, vegetables, and nuts now take priority, while dairy and eggs have been scaled back. Meat consumption, in particular, should not exceed 300 grams per week—ideally closer to 120 grams, according to the DGE's own model.

The changes follow the 'planetary health' concept, which ties human well-being to the health of the environment. This idea was first outlined by the EAT-Lancet Commission, a global group including the UN's Brundtland Commission. Their research showed that cutting meat to 300 grams weekly and increasing plant proteins keeps food production within sustainable limits.

The DGE's update could influence food choices in schools, hospitals, and workplaces. Many EU countries currently tax meat at reduced VAT rates, but studies suggest raising prices could cut environmental harm by 3 to 6 percent. In Austria, the WWF has already called for similar measures, noting that current meat intake there is three times higher than health guidelines.

Officials stress that sustainable eating does not just protect the planet—it also improves long-term health.

The guidelines mark a clear move away from animal products, with plant-based foods now making up the bulk of recommended diets. Institutions across Germany may soon adjust their menus to reflect these changes. The shift aims to lower greenhouse gas emissions while promoting healthier eating habits.