Plant-based protein consumption patterns among Saudi Generation Z: a cross-sectional study of dietary frequencies, health outcomes, and sustainable eating behaviors

Abstract

Background: The global shift toward sustainable food systems has highlighted plant-based proteins as essential for environmental and health benefits. However, research on plant-based protein consumption among young adults in the Gulf region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, remains limited despite the country's youthful demographic profile and increasing environmental awareness.

Objective: This cross-sectional study explored plant-based protein consumption patterns frequencies among Saudi Generation Z (Gen Z) aged 18-25, examining associations with health outcomes, sustainable healthy eating behaviors (SHEBs), and readiness to adopt sustainable healthy diets.

Methods: A non-representative convenience sample of 398 Saudi adults was recruited through snowball sampling. Data was collected via an online survey incorporating validated instruments for dietary consumption frequency, SHEB assessment, and stages-of-change measurement. Participants were categorized into three groups based on weekly consumption frequency of plant-based protein sources: low frequency (0-7 portions/week), moderate frequency (8-21 portions/week), and high frequency (≥22 portions/week). Statistical analyses included analysis of variance, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression.

Results: The median weekly consumption frequency of plant-based protein sources was 14 portions/week (IQR: 7-24), compared to 28 portions/week (IQR: 21-35) for animal-based protein sources. Only 21.4% of participants achieved high consumption frequency (≥22 portions/week). Higher plant-based protein consumption frequency was associated with lower mean body mass index (BMI) (23.19 ± 6.58 vs. 24.57 ± 7.02 kg/m² among low-frequency consumers, p = 0.031), greater engagement in SHEBs (mean score: 2.17 ± 0.43 vs. 1.91 ± 0.38, p < 0.001), and more advanced stages of change toward adopting plant-based diets (p < 0.001). Health motivations predominated across all groups (>35%), while environmental concerns remained minimal (4.9-7.1%). The majority of participants (83.2%) were in the precontemplation or contemplation stages regarding plant-based diet adoption.

Conclusion: Plant-based protein consumption among this Saudi Gen Z convenience sample remains markedly lower than animal-based protein intake, indicating limited integration of legumes, nuts, and plant-based alternatives into routine diets. Higher consumption frequency was observed alongside lower BMI and greater engagement in sustainable eating behaviors, suggesting associations that warrant further study. However, the cross-sectional design limits causal interpretation, and consumption frequency reflects behavioral patterns rather than validated nutritional intake or adequacy. Promoting health benefits while respecting traditional food practices may support healthier dietary shifts among young Arabs.

Keywords: Arab region; Generation Z; Saudi Arabia; dietary transition; environmental awareness; gulf countries; plant-based protein; sustainable healthy diets.