The Meat Industry’s Secret Assault on Public Health
A recent review of 44 studies has uncovered a significant bias in research funded by the red meat industry, suggesting that the health risks of meat consumption may be downplayed in industry-funded studies.
The review, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, examined research on red meat and its connection to cardiovascular health conducted between 1980 and 2023. The findings highlight a stark contrast between industry-funded and independent studies.
Key Findings on Research Bias
The review categorised the studies based on their funding sources:
- Industry-funded: 29 studies received financial support from red-meat-related groups, such as the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the National Pork Board.
- Independent: 15 studies were funded by impartial sources like government grants, academic institutions, or nonprofit foundations.
The analysis revealed that studies with a declared conflict of interest were nearly four times more likely to present favourable or neutral findings for red meat consumption.
A tale of two conclusions
The disparity in outcomes is striking:
Industry-linked studies:
- 21% reported favourable cardiovascular outcomes
- 79% reported neutral outcomes
- no studies reported unfavorable outcomes
Independent studies:
- no studies reported favourable cardiovascular outcomes
- 27% reported neutral outcomes
- 73% reported unfavourable cardiovascular outcomes
These statistics demonstrate that a majority of independent research links red meat consumption to an increased risk of heart disease. The authors of the review suggest that industry-funded studies may be downplaying the health benefits of reducing red meat intake. This raises concerns about the influence of food industry funding on scientific integrity and public health guidance.
This analysis highlights the importance of asking “Who funded the research?” when the conclusions seem a little off!
López-Moreno M, Fresán U, Marchena-Giráldez C et al. 2025. Industry study sponsorship and conflicts of interest on the effect of unprocessed red meat on cardiovascular disease risk: a systematic review of clinical trials. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 121 (6) 1246-1257.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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