The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee recently proposed that plant proteins replace animal proteins in American diets to the USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services. The agencies are working to craft federal dietary guidelines for Americans through 2030.

The proposal suggests beans, peas and lentils should be classified as protein sources rather than vegetables. Livestock groups strongly criticized the recommendations, including the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). They argue the proposal ignores nutritional needs and could harm various groups, such as infants, young children and older adults who require specific nutrients found primarily in animal proteins.

NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys contends that plant proteins lack certain essential nutrients. NCBA’s Vice President Ethan Lane called the recommendations “out-of-touch” and “impractical.”

Registered Dietitian Dr. Shalene McNeil of NCBA added that beef provides essential nutrients disproportionate to its low-calorie contribution to American diets. McNeil also highlighted that despite declining red meat consumption, obesity and chronic diseases continue to rise. This questions the effectiveness of the committee’s approach.

Read more about the guidelines.