Key points from article :
A long-running debate in nutrition is whether plant protein is healthier than animal protein. A new study led by Yanni Papanikolaou and colleagues at McMaster University, published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, sheds new light on this question. Analyzing data from nearly 16,000 U.S. adults, the researchers found no meaningful difference in overall mortality between people who consumed mostly plant protein versus those who consumed mostly animal protein. Surprisingly, animal protein even showed a slight protective effect against cancer-related deaths.
Protein intake recommendations can be confusing, with guidelines ranging from 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day to 10–35 percent of daily calories. While some past studies suggested that high protein intake—especially from animal sources—might increase mortality or cancer risk, the McMaster team focused instead on usual protein intake over time, regardless of quantity. Using rigorous statistical methods to account for daily dietary fluctuations, they found that neither plant nor animal protein was associated with higher overall death risk.
The study reinforces the idea that both sources of protein can be part of a healthy diet. Whether from plants or animals, protein supports muscle health, longevity, and overall wellbeing. Observational studies like this cannot prove cause and effect, but when combined with decades of clinical evidence, the results suggest that people don’t need to worry excessively about whether their protein is plant- or animal-based.
In short, the researchers conclude that both plant and animal proteins promote health and longevity. For most people, focusing on balanced protein intake that fits within broader dietary patterns is more important than the source itself.
