Washington, D.C. — A recent study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine highlights that the term "plant-based" has different meanings for U.S. adults, with significant variations across demographic groups. Dr. Anna Herby, a nutrition education specialist at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and co-author of the study, noted that while the term has gained popularity, it lacks a clear definition. "The greatest benefits of a plant-based diet stem from completely avoiding animal products," she explained.
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The study found that 56% of respondents equated "plant-based" with a vegan diet, which excludes all animal products. In contrast, 35% interpreted it as a diet rich in plant foods while still including some meat, dairy, and eggs. Additionally, 7% were unsure of its meaning, and 2% provided other responses.
Demographic differences were pronounced; 63% of adults aged 65-94 associated "plant-based" with a vegan diet, compared to 51% of those aged 18-34. This analysis was based on a survey of 2,202 U.S. adults conducted in July 2025 by Morning Consult, adhering to the Best Practices for Survey Research of the American Association of Public Opinion Research.
Shannon Menhardt, MS, a registered dietitian at the Barnard Medical Center and co-author of the study, emphasized that establishing a clear definition of "plant-based" could empower consumers to make informed food choices by clarifying that it signifies the absence of animal products. Moreover, a consistent definition could enhance the interpretation of research findings and improve communication among health professionals, patients, and the media.