With rising awareness of climate change and abuse of animals, an increasing number of consumers are turning to vegan Meat, which tastes exactly like Meat but has none of the drawbacks. Vegan Meat or plant-based Meat has grown in popularity since celebrities began to endorse and promote veganism and non-vegetarian alternatives.
What exactly is plant-based meat?
Plant-based meats are products that are meant to replicate animal meat. Earlier products, such as tofu and seitan, were intended to replace animal meat; however, newer products mimic their taste, texture, smell, and appearance. Plant-based foods commonly contain legumes, soybeans, lentils, quinoa, vegetable proteins like peas, coconut oil, and vital wheat gluten, also known as seitan.
When did plant-based meat first appear?
Plant-based meats have been in trend for a while, but imitation has never been this close, and it provides an excellent alternative protein source.
Meat substitutes have been around since 206 BC when tofu was the primary meat substitute. Its popularity grew over time, and many manufacturers now offer a variety of plant-based meat products. Plant-based meat consumption increased by nearly 37% in some parts of the world. Plant-based meat products are now widely available in bakeries, restaurants, and supermarkets.
What is the composition of plant-based meat?
Plant-based meats commonly contain the following ingredients:
- Tofu and soy
- Seitan or wheat gluten
- Potato starch
- Pea protein
- Lentils
- Beans
- Coconut oil
- Seeds and nuts
- Vegetables
- Different spice and condiment mixes enhance the flavour profile of these ingredients when mixed.
How is plant-based meat made?
Plant-based Meat is made from plants, as the name implies. As a result, manufacturers rely on plants rather than animals to produce plant-based Meat. Plant-based Meat, like animal-based Meat, contains fat, minerals, protein, water, and vitamins. It is designed to look and taste like Meat.
Is it healthy?
Plant-based meat products contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all of which have health benefits. Generally, these are low in calories and high in fibre. It helps in reducing LDL levels.
Plant-based Meat? Yes! Or No!
Pros:
- They’re a great meat substitute for days when you can’t or don’t want to eat Meat, such as at festivals.
- They’re another way to incorporate more protein into your diet, giving you more variety.
- They look, taste, cook, and feel precisely like Meat so that you won’t miss them.
- They’re ideal for parties or eating with vegetarians.
Cons:
- The main disadvantage of plant-based Meat is that it is not Meat, and you may miss out on certain omega-3 fatty acids found in animal-based protein.
Availability in India
The following are some of the most popular plant-based meat startups that can tempt people who prefer slaughter-free products.
- Good Dot
This startup was started in 2016 to provide India with plant-based products that taste like animal meat. The products are reasonably priced and offer customers a healthier protein option. Soya, pea, and wheat protein are used to make the foods that are consumed. You can order products from their website.
Visit | https://gooddot.in/collections/all
- EVO Foods
It was started in 2019; they give you liquid eggs that smell and taste exactly like real eggs but are made of mung beans. They claim that with their eggs you get a fluffier omelette than regular eggs. You can order products from their website.
Visit | https://evofoods.in/
- Mister Veg
This startup provides not only plant-based Meat but also seafood. It was founded in 2018 by Rupinder Singh and Simarjeet Singh to save the environment by providing its customers with cruelty-free Meat and seafood at an affordable price.
Visit | https://www.misterveg.com/
- Vezley
It was founded in 2011 and provided vegan food items that are nutritious, delicious, and healthy for its customers. The food products look and taste like real Meat but are made of soy and wheat products.
Visit | https://vezlay.com/