A recent survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult found that a majority of US adults incorrectly believe that a plant-based diet is more expensive than one that includes meat and dairy.
The survey, which polled 2,206 US adults between June 10 and June 12, 2025, revealed that more than 60% of respondents share this view. Baby Boomers were the most likely to think that plant-based eating is significantly more expensive, with 67% of them believing plant-based foods cost somewhat or much more than a typical Standard American Diet.
Majority admit meat is largest expense
The survey also highlights concerns about grocery prices, with 77% of adults stating that food costs are currently too high. When asked to identify their largest grocery expense, 70% said meat.
Xavier Toledo, a registered dietitian with the Physicians Committee, explained that many consumers may not realize that meals based on whole or minimally processed plant foods, such as beans, grains, tofu, and vegetables, are often more affordable than those that rely on animal products. He pointed to research showing that plant-based diets can lower grocery costs.
Proof in the numbers
A study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024 found that a low-fat vegan diet reduced food costs by 19%, or about $1.80 per day, compared to a Standard American Diet. This reduction in costs was primarily due to savings on meat ($2.90 per day), dairy ($0.50 per day), and added fats ($0.50 per day), which outweighed the slight increase in spending on plant-based foods like vegetables, grains, and meat alternatives.
Further research supports these findings. A 2021 Oxford University study suggested that a vegan diet could reduce food-related expenses by up to one-third, accounting for the long-term costs of climate change and healthcare. A 2022 study also found that individuals following a plant-based diet spent less on food than those who included animal products in their diets.
“These strategies add up—helping you save money without shortchanging your health”
Toledo provided practical tips for consumers looking to reduce grocery bills without sacrificing nutrition, such as purchasing seasonal produce or opting for frozen or canned goods. He also noted the health benefits of a plant-based diet, including weight management and a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
“Simple shifts—like buying produce in season, choosing frozen or canned when it’s more affordable, cooking in batches, and leaning on budget-friendly staples like potatoes, beans, and brown rice—can make a big difference. These strategies add up—helping you save money without shortchanging your health,” Toledo said.
