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Plant-based meat refers to food products that are designed to mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of traditional meat, but are made entirely from plant ingredients. These products are typically made from a combination of proteins, such as soy or pea protein, and other plant-based ingredients like oils, spices, and flavorings. Plant-based meat has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential environmental and health benefits. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional meat production, as it requires fewer resources and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, plant-based meat is often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthier choice for individuals seeking to reduce their meat consumption.
Are you a fan of sinking your teeth into a juicy burger? Many people are! There are numerous ways to enjoy this popular dinner dish. Perhaps you like to add cheese, ketchup, pickles, or onions to your burger. You might even order a “hamburger without the meat”!
Meatless burgers have been around for a while. You may have heard them referred to as “veggie burgers.” These burgers are made from beans and other non-meat ingredients. However, the market for meatless alternatives has been revolutionized by a more recent creation: plant-based meat.
What exactly is plant-based meat? It’s food that closely resembles meat in appearance and taste but is made entirely from plants. It comes in various forms, such as chickenless nuggets and meatless meatballs. However, plant-based burgers and other beef-like plant-based products have recently gained attention. They are now commonly found in both restaurants and grocery stores.
What are these plant-based options made of? The specific ingredients vary depending on the manufacturer. Several companies, such as Beyond Meat® and Impossible™ Foods, have their own recipes. They often include grains, legumes, and starches. Fats are typically added using coconut oil or cocoa butter. Flavor and color are also derived from plants like beets and apples.
Many plant-based meats also contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). One example is heme, an ingredient in the Impossible Burger. It is made from soy and fermented yeast. Heme provides iron to the burgers and gives them a “bleeding” effect, making them resemble meat burgers even more.
How is plant-based meat produced? It goes through a process called extrusion. This involves hydrating, heating, and shearing the ingredients. The complex process alters the protein structure within each item, resulting in a final product that looks and tastes like meat.
Now that we have a better understanding of what plant-based meat is, is it healthy? According to a 2020 study from Stanford Medicine, it may be. The study found that consuming plant-based meat instead of red meat may reduce the risk of heart disease. However, plant-based meat is highly processed, making it less healthy compared to unprocessed fruits and vegetables. People who prefer to avoid GMOs are also likely to steer clear of plant-based meat.
Some health organizations associate red meat consumption with high cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer. Plant-based meat may prove to be a healthier alternative. Additionally, excessive meat consumption contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. Many individuals hope that consuming plant-based meat can help address these issues and combat climate change.
Have you ever tasted a plant-based burger? They are gaining popularity among meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike. You may come across these options at your next barbecue or during a trip to the grocery store. They may even be available at certain restaurants. Consult a trusted adult to help you decide if they are suitable for you.
Give It a Try
Are you ready to continue learning? Find a friend or family member who can assist you with the activities below.
- If you’re interested in trying plant-based meat, you can make your own versions at home. Give vegan ground beef or homemade black bean burgers a try for your next meal. Just make sure to have an adult help you and check the supply list before starting.
- Do you consume meat? How about vegetables? What percentage of your diet consists of fruits? And what about dairy products? It’s important to have a diverse range of foods in your diet to ensure you’re getting all the necessary nutrients. Start keeping a food journal to record and describe each meal and snack you have. After a few weeks, review your journal. Can you find any patterns? Are there any food groups that you’re neglecting? Discuss your eating habits with a friend or family member and explore ways to incorporate more foods that promote good health.
- Are you up for a challenge? Learn more about the impact of our food choices on the environment. Then, create a poster or infographic summarizing what you’ve learned. Don’t forget to share your creation with a friend or family member!
Wonder Sources
- https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/08/plant-based-meat-versus-animal-meat.html (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://www.ift.org/news-and-publications/food-technology-magazine/issues/2019/october/columns/processing-how-plant-based-meat-and-seafood-are-processed (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/21/climate/plant-based-meat.html (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://www.cnbc.com/2019/08/21/whole-foods-ceo-john-mackey-plant-based-meat-not-good-for-your-health.html (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://sentientmedia.org/plant-based-meats/ (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://www.beyondmeat.com/about/our-ingredients/ (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
- https://learnersdictionary.com/ (accessed 04 Jan. 2020)
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