Global study shows children consume insufficient plant-based foods

A global nutritional analysis conducted by researchers at Tufts University reveals that children and adolescents worldwide are consuming insufficient amounts of essential plant-based foods. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,200 dietary surveys across 185 countries between 1990 and 2018, focused on five key groups: fruit, non-starchy vegetables, starchy vegetables (excluding potatoes), legumes, and nuts and seeds.

Findings indicate that consumption levels remain low among young people globally. Notably, the study identified a distinct trend in the United States, where the consumption of healthy plant-based foods declines with age—starting from some of the highest levels in early childhood and dropping to among the lowest during adolescence. Lead author Sydney Yearley noted that dietary habits formed during childhood can influence health throughout a person's entire life.