The Biden-Harris administration is expected to prioritize plant-based proteins over traditional meat in its upcoming dietary guidelines, though the official release is planned only after the election. This delay has led to speculation that the administration may be worried about negative voter reactions to such dietary changes in the final days before Election Day.

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, appointed by the administration, has suggested that plant proteins such as beans, peas, and lentils be highlighted as the preferred sources of protein. Harvard nutritionist Deirdre Tobias, a committee member, called the move an answer to a “branding crisis” around protein and stated that Americans need to reframe their ideas about protein sources.

Biden-Harris diet panel to elevate plant proteins over meat in snub to farm voters https://t.co/5XNuF5kHjh

— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) October 31, 2024

Agricultural groups and nutrition advocates have expressed concerns over the proposal, arguing that red meat offers essential nutrients that plant-based proteins do not provide in equal measure. Shalene McNeill, representing the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, described the plan as “out of touch” with established nutritional science and argued that red meat plays an important role in filling nutritional gaps in the American diet. Bryan Humphreys of the National Pork Producers Council echoed these concerns, warning that plant proteins lack the nutrient density of meat.

These guidelines, though nonbinding, influence school meal standards, federal dietary advice, and public health guidelines, giving them substantial reach. Critics have questioned why the administration has chosen to delay the release of these controversial guidelines, suggesting it may be an attempt to avoid alienating voters who see meat as a staple in their diets.

This push to reduce meat consumption aligns with the administration’s environmental goals, as the agriculture sector has been targeted for its greenhouse gas emissions. However, many Americans may feel the proposal is an unwelcome departure from traditional dietary habits and values, especially if it is perceived as prioritizing environmental issues over nutrition.

With the election looming, the delayed release has drawn scrutiny from those who believe the administration is seeking to avoid potential backlash until after the polls close.