Researchers Link Plant-based Meat to Possible Depression Risk

Published on: 10 Feb, 2025
Updated on: 10 Feb, 2025

A plant-based burger

By Stella Kuchanny

Plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) are often praised as a sustainable and healthy option for vegetarians. But could they come with hidden risks?

A new study from the University of Surrey has raised concerns about the impact of these ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on mental health, finding a surprising link to higher depression risk.

The study, published in Food Frontiers, concluded that vegetarians who consumed PBMAs regularly had a 42 per cent greater chance of developing depression compared with those who avoided them. However the researchers said PBMAs are likely to be safe when part of a balanced diet.

Researchers analysed data from the UK Biobank, looking at dietary habits and health outcomes. They found that vegetarians eating PBMAs showed worrying biological trends:

Higher blood pressure
Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation linked to depression
Lower levels of apolipoprotein A, a protein associated with “good” HDL cholesterol

Interestingly, despite these findings, there were no significant differences in sodium, sugar, or saturated fat intake between those who ate PBMAs and those who did not.

On the positive side, the study also found that PBMA consumption was associated with a 40 per cent reduced risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)—a condition that commonly affects vegetarians.

Professor Nophar Geifman, senior author of the study, noted: “The overall findings are reassuring, suggesting that plant-based meat alternatives may be a safe option when they’re part of a balanced diet. However, the potential link between these foods, inflammation, and depression warrants further investigation.”

Professor Anthony Whetton, co-author, emphasized the role PBMAs can play for those transitioning to vegetarianism: “These alternatives can be useful for reducing reliance on animal agriculture, which benefits sustainable practices. But more research is needed to confirm these links with mood and inflammation.”

The study does come with some limitations:

The data came primarily from a white UK population, limiting its diversity.
Dietary habits were recorded only once at the beginning of the study, leaving out potential changes over time.

For vegetarians, PBMAs remain a convenient option, particularly for those looking to transition away from meat. But the findings highlight the importance of balance and a focus on whole, unprocessed foods wherever possible.

While these results are not a reason to abandon plant-based meat, they are a reminder that not all vegetarian food is created equal. As scientists continue to investigate the link between diet, mood, and inflammation, one key takeaway is clear: eating for health goes far beyond the label.