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Is plant-based food really better for the planet?

Explains the environmental case for plant-based food, covering greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water use compared to animal-based diets.

Written by Jamie Forbes

Yes, research consistently shows that plant-based foods have a lower environmental impact than animal-based foods across multiple measures.

Greenhouse gas emissions

Animal agriculture — particularly beef and dairy — is responsible for a large share of global greenhouse gas emissions. Plant-based foods like oats, peas, and legumes generate a fraction of those emissions per kilogram of protein produced. All Huel products are plant-based and have independently measured carbon footprints aligned with a 1.5°C climate pathway.

Land use

Producing animal protein requires significantly more land than producing equivalent plant protein. Livestock farming uses around 77% of global agricultural land while providing only 18% of global calories. Shifting toward plant-based diets frees up land for reforestation and biodiversity.

Water use

Animal products generally require more water to produce than plant-based alternatives. Huel prioritizes lower water-impact ingredients in its supply chain.

What this means for Huel customers

By choosing Huel for even one meal a day, customers can reduce their personal carbon, land, and water footprint — without compromising on nutrition or convenience.

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