New Nordic Nutrition Guidelines Encourage Reduction in Meat Consumption
Environmental Considerations Taken into Account for the First Time
The Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) have been updated for the sixth time, with the latest iteration, NRR2023, placing particular emphasis on the environmental impact of dietary choices. The 391-page report advocates reducing the consumption of meat and replacing it with plant-based alternatives such as legumes and sustainably managed fish stocks. The recommendations are the first to take environmental and climatic considerations into account.
Sweden Rejects Recommendations
Not all Nordic politicians have welcomed the new guidelines. Sweden’s Minister of Rural Affairs, Peter Kullgren, has rejected the advice, stating that the country would rather increase animal production. The recommendations form the basis of the dietary advice in Nordic and Baltic countries, with governments free to implement the guidelines as they see fit.
Reports Criticised for Scientific Shortcomings
Kullgren criticised the scientific basis of the recommendations, suggesting that the report had “missed the mark” and had “shortcomings in the underlying scientific considerations”. The report was developed with the input of 231 experts and 59 public consultations.
Healthiest Food for Children and Vulnerable Groups
The recommendations will guide the food served in schools, hospitals and elderly care facilities and will influence nutrition labels. The report emphasises the role of red meat in greenhouse gas emissions and highlights the low carbon impact of pulses and legumes. However, it also notes that the vast majority of soy production is not directed towards human consumption, but rather as animal feed for pigs and chickens.
Conclusion
The NRR2023 report has called for a reduction in meat consumption in favour of plant-based alternatives. The report is the first to take environmental and climatic considerations into account in creating dietary guidelines. While not all politicians have welcomed the report, it will provide the basis for dietary advice in Nordic and Baltic countries and will influence consumer food choices and labelling.
