Plant-Based Meat: Why it’s Worth Trying as a New Alternative

From your favorite burger joint to the most famous food companies, the world is bowled over this all-new ‘Plant-based meat’. Experts are saying that this could be the revolution, the game-changer, the disruptor that could define the future of cultivation and consumption. So, in this blog, I will be updating you with all the deets about this new trend in town!

But first what is plant meat… Is it another dreaded disaster like pineapple pizza and chocolate Maggi, or is it really meat growing on plants? 

Well, it’s something in between… Plant meat isn’t really meat but it mimics the exact taste and texture of the meat you eat. That means you can have that same soul-satiating taste of meat in your mouth without actually ripping off the flesh of another creature. That’s brutal!

Before revealing more about this plant meat miracle, let us understand why this infant concept is a billion-dollar industry already. In the year 2019, the plant-based meat industry was pegged at 5 billion dollars. Indian film stars Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Dsouza too launched a plant-based meat company named ‘Imagine Meats’ with dishes like mutton keema, butter chicken, and chicken seekh kabab made out of pure plants.

Why people are opting for plant-based meat?

Thanks to animal protection organizations like PETA and others, people are now aware of the scary grind that goes behind the scenes in animal husbandry. 

• The spread of a pandemic was a huge wake-up call for meat-eaters to rethink their food choices. 
• With more people turning to mindful eating, healthy alternatives have emerged as a soaring market.
• Livestock and animal raring is proven dangerous to the environment and the planet.
• Many people believe that eating more plant-based food will benefit their health and the environment. 

What is plant meat?

As I said, plant-based meat isn’t actually meat. Rather, they are specially engineered plant-based recipes that look, taste and feels exactly like meat. This new food category is made to mimic meat products so as to create a healthy sustainable alternative. 

The primary ingredients in plant-based meat substitutes are 

• Soybeans 
• Lentils
• Peas
• Potato starch
• coconut oil
• beans and lentils
• Nuts and seeds
• Jackfruit
• Drumsticks
• Spices
• Beet juice extract
• Rice
• Other vegetables

Soya chunks, mushrooms and peas have been widely explored for creating this plant meat. Jackfruit has been the new entrant in the industry and it’s creating a ton of buzz because of its meat-like texture and versatility. 

Is plant-based meat a healthier alternative? 

Well, scientifically plant-based meats are a healthier option than animal meat when eaten in moderation. It has lower amounts of total and saturated fat, minimal cholesterol, higher amounts of fiber, and good amounts of protein and calories. 

Animal meat is high in saturated and trans-fat, which can cause high cholesterol. Thus, it increases the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiac diseases, cancer, and others. 

What does the research say? 

A small study examined the health impact of plant-based meats versus animal meat. The study found that people who ate at least two servings of plant-based meat for eight weeks lowered their risk of cardiovascular disease. This was in comparison to people who ate the same amount of animal meat for the same duration. 

Another study stated that plant-based ingredients are a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Research also indicated that plant-based meats can be beneficial for weight management and diabetes management. 

WHO too raised concern over the carcinogenic effects of red meat and processed meat that may increase cancer risks. Diabetes, cholesterol, hormonal imbalance, and PCOS are a few other conditions that can be caused by excess consumption of meat. AHA also recommended adding more plant protein than meat protein because of its rich nutritional benefits. 

Is it too good to be true?

Plant-based meats aren’t sans the cons though. 

Most plant meats are typically high in sodium. Most brands add sodium to match up to the taste of real meat. And it’s a proven health fact that too much sodium can cause adverse health effects ranging from high blood pressure to stroke.

Secondly, plant-based meats are engineered food that may be highly processed. At times, they can be filled with less healthy ingredients, like refined coconut oil and modified food starch. Research suggests that processed foods can cause people to consume an extra 500 calories a day. This is a major cause of weight gain.

Thirdly, plant-based meats are often frozen and preserved, thus, robbing it of the nutritional benefits. It is a good alternative to animal meat when eaten in moderation. However, it shouldn’t be treated as the only source of protein.

Why is Plant-based meat so expensive?

Unlike regular meat which is mass-produced in animal agriculture, plant-based meat is developed on a way smaller scale, which makes it scarce. Furthermore, plant-based meats contain a variety of whole foods, such as exotic spices and vegetables, which are in general more expensive. Not to forget that this is a highly researched, scientifically deciphered formula which makes it quite expensive. 

Final takeaway

Well, it’s too early to comment!!! 

Plant-based meats may be a sustainable eco-friendly solution that serves as a tasty as well as a healthy alternative for those looking for an alternative to meat without missing that feel and taste of meat. Brand researchers say that they can add essential nutrients and fiber to the diet.

However, it is also crucial to note that calorically, plant-based meats are similar to animal meats. The only difference is that plant-based meats do not contain harmful saturated fats and are low in cholesterol. But they are higher in sodium and they contain a little bit of fiber. 

In my final words, I would say if you are thinking of going meat-free, then go for a vegetarian diet. It’s always a better idea than switching to something that’s highly engineered and artificially made. Food is always good when it comes directly from the farm!

Also Read:

Vegan Diet – The best nutritious options for vegans

Are cruciferous vegetables bad for thyroid

Vegetarian Diet and vitamin B12 deficiency