Development of Sustainable Dietary Shift Guidelines for Korean Adults
As climate and environmental challenges intensify, shifting toward sustainable food systems has become a global priority. This study aimed to develop Sustainable Dietary Shift Guidelines for Korean adults (K-Sustainable Dietary Shift Guidelines) based on the optimized sustainable dietary pattern previously developed for Korean adults. Directions for dietary shift were derived by comparing the current dietary pattern with the optimized sustainable dietary pattern among Korean adults. The directions included increasing intake of vegetables, fruits, and plant-based protein foods; reducing intake of animal-based protein foods, sugars, and seasonings; and shifting grain and fat intake toward whole and mixed grains and plant-based fats. Based on the directions, 7 dietary shift guidelines were developed: Fill two-thirds of your plate with grains, vegetables, and fruits; Eat more whole grains and mixed grains; Eat more vegetables and fruits; Replace meat with fish and legumes; Include a handful of nuts in your daily diet; Cut back on sugary and salty foods; and Replace animal fats with plant-based oils. Specific action guides were also developed to support adherence to the guidelines. The K-Sustainable Dietary Shift Guidelines provide evidence-based and practical guidance for sustainable diets and may serve as a useful resource for nutrition education and food policy.