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U.S. meat consumption grew from 109 kg to 117 kg per capita between 2018 and 2023, and is projected to reach 122 kg per capita in 2027, according to a recent analysis.
Is your Protein Obsession Harming Your Health?
A growing number of Americans are prioritizing protein, but experts warn that the source matters-and more isn’t always better.
- Meat consumption in the U.S. is on the rise, projected to continue increasing through 2027.
- Processed meats are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the World Health Organization.
- Most Americans already consume enough protein through a balanced diet.
- Whole foods-like spinach,peas,and whole grains-offer excellent protein sources.
Got enough protein today? Its a question increasingly on the minds of Americans, as interest in the macronutrient surges. This has fueled a boom in protein-packed products-from bars and powders to even protein-infused popcorn and pancake mixes-sending many to the grocery store in search of their fix.
Q: Is a high-protein diet always healthy?
A: Not necessarily. While protein is essential, excessive intake, particularly from meat and processed sources, has been linked to increased risks of cancer, diabetes, and overall mortality.
But should we be questioning where our protein comes from and the potential downsides of a meat-heavy diet? That’s what Raj Punjabi-johnson and Noah Michelson, hosts of a popular podcast, asked food journalist Elizabeth Dunn when she visited their studio.
“There’s definitely this perception online that a high-protein lifestyle means a lot of meat,” Dunn explained. “What’s frequently enough left out of that conversation are the downsides of eating a lot of meat. The data is very clear-decades of large-scale,reputable studies show that a higher meat intake correlates with increased chances of cancer,diabetes,and a shorter lifespan. These health consequences are particularly pronounced with red and processed meats.”
