Author: Coach Sumo | Founder & CEO of Know Your Meals
Plant-based protein innovations in the food industry have taken the world by storm in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are these products healthier for consumers, they’re also better for the planet. In this blog article, we’ll explore the latest plant-based protein innovations in the food industry and why you should consider incorporating them into your diet.
One of the most exciting plant-based protein innovations in the food industry is the development of meat substitutes. Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have created plant-based burgers, sausages, and even ground beef that look, taste, and feel like real meat. These products are made with ingredients like soy, peas, and even mushrooms, and they’re a great source of protein. In fact, a Beyond Burger contains 20 grams of protein, which is the same as a traditional beef burger.
Meat substitutes have a number of benefits. First, they’re much healthier than real meat. According to a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, people who eat plant-based meat substitutes instead of real meat have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, they’re better for the planet. Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By eating meat substitutes, we can reduce our impact on the environment.
Another plant-based protein innovation that has gained popularity in recent years is plant-based milk. In the past, people who were lactose intolerant or vegan had limited options when it came to milk substitutes. But today, there are a wide variety of plant-based milks available, including soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk.
Plant-based milks are a great source of protein and other important nutrients. For example, a cup of soy milk contains about 7 grams of protein, which is roughly the same as a cup of cow’s milk. Additionally, plant-based milks are often fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
Plant-based milks are also better for the environment than cow’s milk. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, livestock farming is responsible for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing plant-based milks, we can reduce our impact on the environment and help fight climate change.
In addition to meat substitutes and plant-based milks, there are a number of other plant-based protein innovations in the food industry. For example, companies like Ripple Foods and Silk have developed plant-based yogurt and cheese products. These products are made with ingredients like peas and almonds, and they’re a great source of protein and other important nutrients.
There are also a number of plant-based protein powders available on the market. These powders can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or other foods to boost their protein content. They’re made with ingredients like pea protein, hemp protein, and brown rice protein, and they’re a great option for athletes or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
So why should you consider incorporating these plant-based protein innovations into your diet? There are a number of reasons. First, they’re healthier than traditional meat and dairy products. Plant-based products are often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, and they’re free of antibiotics and hormones that are commonly found in animal products.
Additionally, plant-based protein innovations are better for the environment. As we mentioned earlier, livestock farming is a major contributor to climate change and other environmental problems. By choosing plant-based products, we can reduce our impact on the planet.
Finally, plant-based protein innovations are more ethical than traditional animal products. Many people are uncomfortable with the way animals are treated in factory farms, and choosing plant-based products is a way to support more ethical and sustainable food production.
It is hard to argue with the fact that protein innovations in the food industry are a game changer. Not only do they offer a healthier and more sustainable option for consumers, but they also have the potential to significantly reduce our impact on the environment.
As the world’s population continues to grow, it’s becoming increasingly clear that we need to find new and innovative ways to feed ourselves. Plant-based protein innovations offer a viable solution to this problem, and they have the potential to revolutionize the way we think about food.
Of course, there are still some people who are skeptical of plant-based products. Some argue that they don’t taste as good as traditional meat and dairy products, or that they’re too expensive. But as more and more people try these products and realize their benefits, it’s likely that they will become more widely accepted.
In fact, the plant-based protein market is growing rapidly. According to a report by the Good Food Institute, sales of plant-based meat substitutes in the United States grew by 45% in 2020, and the market is expected to reach $8.3 billion by 2025. Similarly, the plant-based milk market is also growing, with sales expected to reach $21.7 billion by 2024.
In conclusion, this writer believes that plant-based protein innovations in the food industry are here to stay. Whether you’re a vegan, a vegetarian, or simply someone who wants to make healthier and more sustainable food choices, these products offer a viable and exciting option. So why not give them a try? You might be surprised by how delicious and satisfying they can be.
Full disclosure, I am neither vegan nor vegetarian, but as chef and food entrepreneur I am often tasked with preparing vegan and vegetarian meals. I have attached some links below to some great books that may be of interest to those considering a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.