For years, health advocates have urged a move away from meat-based proteins to plant-based alternatives.  But a new study out concludes that even plant-based foods can be harmful for your health – if they are ultra-processed into a finished food product.  As reported in Food & Wine, the UK study found that for every 10% increase in calories derived from plant-based ultra-processed foods, study subjects experienced a 5% higher risk of developing heart disease and a 6% higher risk of coronary heart disease. 

So the key seems to be ultra-processing (the chemical modification of food and addition of artificial flavors, and preservatives, among others) and of course most plant-based protein substitutes are just that.  Perhaps this study can advance the discussion on the natural meat v. plant-based protein alternatives debate.