The German Nutrition Society (DGE) has historically been cautious regarding vegan diets but has now revised its stance.
Key Points
- The German Nutrition Society has revised its position on vegan diets.
- It no longer advises against vegan diets for vulnerable groups in specific life stages.
- Vegan diets are considered more environmentally friendly compared to diets including animal products.
- Last week, the German Nutrition Society (DGE) published its new stance on vegan diets. Alongside health factors, it addresses environmental, animal welfare, and social aspects. The DGE is Germany’s expert body on nutrition and represents the country internationally in this field.
No Vegan Prohibition for Pregnant Women & Co.
Previously, the DGE explicitly advised vulnerable groups such as children or pregnant women against vegan diets. This position has now been reconsidered. After a comprehensive analysis of scientific studies, the DGE concluded that the limited data available does not support a clear recommendation either for or against a vegan diet.
Nele Endner, health expert from the Vegan Society Switzerland, commented, “This is an important step in the right direction. We hope that nutritionists and health professionals will implement these recommendations in practice.”
The DGE advises vegans in special life situations, as well as everyone else, to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Endner added, “It is essential to acquire the necessary knowledge or consult experts if needed, which applies to meat-eaters as well.”
For adults, the DGE is clearer: a carefully planned vegan diet can promote health. Generally, it recommends significantly reducing the consumption of animal products.
Veganism is Clearly Most Climate-Friendly
The DGE’s stance on environmental issues is surprisingly clear. Vegan diets outperform others in terms of climate impact, biodiversity, and land use, with significant climate differences. According to studies cited by the DGE, vegan diets result in 69% to 81% lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Nele Endner noted, “It has long been known that climate goals are unattainable without changing dietary habits. We are pleased that this issue is gaining more importance in Europe and are eager to see the response from the Swiss Society for Nutrition.”
The Swiss Society for Nutrition has not yet published an explicit position on vegan diets for adults but states in a fact sheet that “Vegan diets cannot be simply classified as healthy or unhealthy. What matters more than the diet itself is how it is implemented.”
These recommendations are under revision and expected to be presented in mid-September. Vulnerable groups are currently advised against vegan diets.
International Perspectives
In addition to the DGE, nutrition organizations from other countries also consider vegan diets suitable for all life stages. These include the British Dietetic Association, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in the United States, the Italian Society of Nutrition, and Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council.
