Study debunks claims linking plant-based ultra-processed foods to heart disease

Recent claims linking plant-based ultra-processed foods, like meat substitutes, to heart disease have been debunked. A study found that most ultra-processed plant calories came from items like pastries and cookies, not plant-based meats, which were minimally represented. The scientific panel advising federal dietary guidelines noted limited evidence on the health effects of ultra-processed foods. The broad classification of these foods has led to confusion, as it includes both unhealthy items and some that are nutritious, like tofu. Critics argue that the ultra-processed food framework can mislead consumers and unfairly target plant-based alternatives. This has raised concerns about the impact of such narratives on public perception and dietary choices.