PhARM Urges Reconsideration of Red Meat Endorsements in New Dietary Guidelines

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The newly released 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, unveiled on January 7, 2026, outline valuable recommendations such as cutting ultra-processed foods, reducing added sugars and sugary drinks, limiting alcohol intake, and prioritizing nutrient-dense, “real” foods. 

However, the guidelines also promote red meat as a “high-quality” protein source. This endorsement stands in sharp contrast to decades of scientific evidence linking high intake of red meat—especially processed red meat—to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. 

“Framing red meat as a cornerstone of a healthy diet ignores a clear and growing body of evidence that its consumption harms both human health and the environment,” said Michael Martin, MD, MPH, MBA, Founder & President of Physicians Against Red Meat (PhARM). “PhARM supports realistic, evidence-based dietary guidance—one that helps Americans meet their nutrient needs without compromising long-term health.”

The guidelines’ exceptionally high protein targets and continued promotion of meat-based protein sources risk overshadowing well-established plant-based alternatives. Similarly, the vegetarian and vegan section of the guidelines devotes considerable space to potential nutrient deficiencies, minimizing the extensive research showing that healthy plant-based diets are nutritionally adequate for all life stages and promote better overall health outcomes. 

“As health professionals and advocates, we believe dietary guidance should prioritize the foods most protective against chronic disease,” added Dr. Martin. “That means shifting the focus from more meat to more plants.” 

PhARM calls on policymakers, health professionals, and the public to advocate for evidence-based nutrition policies that reflect the best available science—not meat industry interests. This means less red meat and more whole, plant-based foods.

For more information or to join the movement to reduce red meat consumption, visit our website. 

Contact: 

Tyler Cobb 

Executive Director 

Physicians Against Red Meat (PhARM) 

tcobb@pharm.org 

Founded in 2016, Physicians Against Red Meat (PhARM) (pronounced “farm”) is the leading physician voice for reduced red meat consumption. Through advocacy, education, and engagement efforts, we mobilize more than 10,000 health professionals and advocates to drive dietary change for healthier people and a healthier planet.