Even on an omnivore diet, people should still try to increase their intake of plant-based protein foods. In fact, even those following an omnivore diet should be eating mostly plant-based foods to ensure our bodies are getting all the nutrients they need. Specific plant-based protein alternatives, such as nuts, seeds, legumes, tofu, have similar distinguishing nutrients to animal foods, except for vitamin B12. These plant-based alternatives are naturally lower in saturated fat, contain dietary fibre (added bonus!) and can meet daily nutrient requirements if eaten in adequate quantities. A greater intake of these foods would benefit the health of all Australians, not just people following a vegetarian or vegan diet, and reduce the environmental outputs which are generally higher for animal based foods.
If you follow an omnivore diet and you can eat all foods you have access to, remember, this does not mean that your diet is nutritionally adequate. We encourage our community on, who following a range of eating patterns, to eat a variety of foods from the five food groups every day (see information about meeting your nutrient needs here).