A landmark report from the EAT-Lancet Commission finds that adopting a plant-rich 'planetary health diet' could prevent 40,000 premature deaths daily and slash food-related emissions by over 50%.
October 2, 2025
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Diet Shift Could Avert 15 Million Deaths Annually
A global shift to a "planetary health diet" could prevent up to 40,000 premature deaths each day, totaling approximately 15 million annually. This is a key finding from a major new report by the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission, an authoritative body of 70 experts from 35 countries.
The report states that widespread adoption of this plant-rich diet would also deliver critical environmental benefits, cutting food-related greenhouse gas emissions by more than half by 2050.
Key Health and Climate Findings
Public Health: The reduction in premature deaths would be driven by a decrease in diet-related chronic illnesses.
Climate Impact: The global food system is responsible for about 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed changes could reduce that impact by over 50%.
Ecological Stability: Food production is identified as the single largest driver of environmental degradation, including biodiversity loss and deforestation.
This updated report builds on the influential 2019 framework, placing a greater emphasis on justice and feasibility across different world regions.
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What is the Planetary Health Diet?
The diet provides a flexible framework designed to support both human health and the stability of Earth's natural systems. It is not a strict regimen but a set of guidelines adaptable to local cultures and food availability.
A Flexible, Plant-Rich Framework
The core of the diet emphasizes whole foods and plants.
Foundation: A heavy focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.
Animal Products: It includes moderate amounts of meat, fish, and dairy. This differentiates it from vegetarian or vegan diets.
Guiding Principle: Meat is treated more as a side dish rather than the central feature of a meal. The Planetary Health Plate model shows half the plate filled with fruits and vegetables.
Designed for Global Adaptation
A key feature of the diet is its adaptability. The commission stresses that it can be modified to fit diverse culinary traditions and agricultural systems worldwide, making it a globally relevant solution.
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