Feb 13, 2026
3 min read
For the first time, the German Nutrition Society recommends a 75 percent plant-based diet to protect health and the environment.
DGE is revolutionizing nutritional advice with a focus on sustainability.
02/12/2026 - 21:31:12 The German Nutrition Association (DGE) is constantly changing its approach.For the first time, it evaluates food not only according to health criteria, but also according to its impact on the environment.The result is a clear paradigm shift: away from meat and toward a plant-based diet.
The new rules, effective from 2024, recommend a diet consisting of at least 75 percent plant-based foods.Animal products should make up only a quarter of the menu.The aim is not only to prevent common diseases, but also to protect the climate and resources.
Less meat, more legumes: these are the new rules
The most noticeable change is in the consumption of meat.Instead of 300 to 600 grams per week, DGE now exports a maximum of 300 grams of meat and sausages.An internal computational model even suggested that only 120 grams is optimal.
Other innovations at a glance:
* Dairy: Reduce to two instead of three servings a day
* Eggs: Only one egg per week is recommended
* Plant-based foods: Legumes and nuts are established as an important category in their own right.
* Wheat: Clear recommendation for wheat varieties
* Fats: Vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil or olive oil are preferred
The familiar "5 a day" rule for fruits and vegetables remains, but takes on a new dimension with the emphasis on beans, lentils and nuts.
'Planetary health': Why the environment is now eating too
The integration of climate and environmental aspects is the most fundamental change in the DGE approachA mathematical optimization model integrated factors such as health data, average eating habits and greenhouse gas emissions and land use.
The background is the scientific concept of "planetary health".He says that the health of people is inextricably linked to the health of the planet.It has been proven that meat and milk production causes more stress on the climate and resources than on other plants.DGE claims: What is good for the planet is also good for people in the long run.
A study by the federal environmental agency confirmed that the new guidelines significantly reduce the planet's limits.
This is what the new feeding circle looks like
To use it effectively, DGE has revised its popular food group.It looks at new parts step by step.The message for everyday life is clear:
The basis of each meal should be vegetables, grains and legumes.Animal products such as meat, fish and cheese are used only as small supplements.DGE recommends eating a variety of plant-based foods to cover all the nutrients.Water is still the main recommended drink.
Criticism: Are the guidelines too general?
The realignment follows international models such as the "planetary health diet".But even radical measures met with resistance.
Some doctors and nutritionists criticize the strong emphasis on environmental aspects.They fear that individual health needs will take a back seat.Specifically, they complain:
* General decrease in bone utilization
* Excessive carbohydrate intake from grains, especially for people with pre-diabetes
* Lack of differentiation for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly or pregnant women
In particular, the guidelines apply to healthy adults.Appropriate referrals are needed for other groups of people.
If you want to change your diet to a plant-based diet because of the new DGE guidelines, or want to check yourself and your family to see if you're getting enough nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or vitamin D.A complete blood count can help. This free 25-page PDF report clearly explains which lab values are really important.and when is it appropriate to conduct additional testing?Request a free lab report now
Anticipatory effects in the cafeteria and politics
The recommendations of the DGE are the scientific basis for German nutrition policy.They are expected to have a major impact on public catering in schools, hospitals and businesses.
The company announced that it regularly adapts its guidelines to new research results. Discussions about the right balance between health, sustainability and suitability for everyday use will get us going and keep us busy for a long time.
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