Sweden's plant-based diet shift cuts premature death risk by 25% in new study

Sweden has witnessed a steady decline in meat and dairy consumption since 2019, following the release of the EAT-Lancet report. Daily per capita meat intake has dropped by roughly 10–15%, while milk consumption fell by about 20%. New research now suggests that adopting this plant-focused diet could cut premature death risks by 25% and reduce cardiovascular mortality by a third.

A study led by Anna Stubbendorff analysed data from 26,000 participants in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study cohort. The findings highlight both health benefits and minor risks tied to the dietary shift.

The EAT-Lancet diet promotes a sharp reduction in animal products, favouring plant-based alternatives. Swedish policies have already moved in this direction, with initiatives like the Klimatklivet grant funding lower-meat school meals since 2020. Stockholm's 2023 municipal meat tax pilot also cut cafeteria meat use by 30%, while updated 2024 guidelines encourage plant-based options in public institutions.

Participants closely following the diet showed a 25% lower risk of premature death, with cancer-related mortality dropping similarly. Cardiovascular death risk fell by 33%, and folate levels rose despite reduced animal product intake. However, the study noted a slight increase in iron deficiency anaemia risk, particularly among women.

High-emission diets, in contrast, were linked to a 38% higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes. Yet no major nutrient deficiencies were detected in those adhering to the EAT-Lancet plan. The results suggest that sustainable eating can align with health goals without nutritional trade-offs.

Sweden's current meat intake remains higher than the EAT-Lancet recommendations. But with consumption trending downward, the country appears to be moving toward the diet's targets—albeit gradually.

The research confirms that shifting to a plant-heavy diet could bring significant health gains, including lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and early death. While minor risks like iron deficiency exist, the overall findings support the feasibility of sustainable eating without compromising nutrition. Sweden's ongoing policy changes reflect this transition, with further reductions in meat and dairy likely as guidelines evolve.