Consuming less ultra-processed food is associated with inadequate protein intake among vegan dieters

Abstract

ImportanceMajor concerns regarding vegan dieters are whether they meet protein and essential amino acids (EAA) recommendations, and how reliant they are on ultra-processed foods (UPF).ObjectivesTo investigate whether vegan dieters meet protein and EAA recommendations. As secondary objectives, to determine UPF intake and potential predictors of inadequate protein intake in this population.DesignA survey conducted between September 2021 and January 2023.SettingBrazil.ParticipantsVegan dieters of both sexes, aged 18 years or older, following a vegan diet for at least 6 months.ExposureAdherence to a vegan diet, and unprocessed and minimally processed foods (UMPF) and UPF consumption.Main outcome measuresProtein and EAA intake, and food consumption according to processing level (Nova classification).ResultsOne thousand and fourteen participants completed the survey, and 774 confirmed vegan dieters with adequate food recalls were included in the analysis. Most participants (74%) met daily protein intake according to the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) (median: 1.12 g·kg−1·day−1, 95%CI 1.05; 1.16). Median EAA intake was also above RDA (with 71–91% meeting recommendations). Median UMPF intake was 66.5% (95%CI 65.0; 67.9) of total energy intake (TEI), whereas UPF consumption was 13.2% TEI (95%CI 12.4; 14.4). Adjusted logistic regression models showed that consuming protein supplements or textured soy protein, higher caloric, and higher UPF intakes were associated with reduced odds of inadequate protein intake, and that higher UMPF intakes were associated with increased odds of inadequate protein intake.Conclusions and RelevanceThe majority of vegan dieters attained protein and EAA intake recommendations, largely based their diet on UMPF, and had a significantly lower proportion of UPF as compared to previous reports on vegans and overall Brazilian population. Importantly, participants consuming less UPF more likely exhibited inadequate protein intake, suggesting the importance of ultra-processed proteins for this population.Key pointsQuestionDo vegan dieters meet protein needs, and how reliant are they on ultra-processed foods (UPF)?FindingsIn this large survey including 774 vegan dieters, 74% had adequate daily protein intake. Unprocessed and minimally processed foods and UPF consumption accounted for 66.5% and 13.2% of total energy intake. Consuming protein supplements and textured soy protein, and higher caloric and UPF intakes were associated with reduced odds of inadequate protein intake, whereas higher UMPF intakes were associated with increased odds of inadequate protein intake.MeaningMost vegan dieters attain protein recommendations, while being less likely to do so when consuming less UPF.