What are meat substitutes made of?

Soy is most often used as a plant-based alternative to meat. The seeds of the plant are high in protein and fat, but can cause allergies. Wheat protein (gluten) in the form of Seitan is also widely used. Seitan has a meat-like bite and can be seasoned well. Another alternative is peas. They are high in protein and do not need to be labeled as an allergen. Black beans or jackfruit can also be used.

How does the meat-like taste come about?

In our blind tasting, many passers-by couldn't distinguish the meat from the plant-based alternatives. According to nutrition expert Britta Schautz, this is primarily due to spicy ingredients such as onions and garlic, which are also expected in meat. There are also substances that make the product taste more metallic, such as beetroot or iron tablets.

Protein instead of real vegetables

The vegan patties are often not made from beans or peas themselves, but from pea or bean protein in the form of processed powder. Healthy ingredients such as vitamins or fiber are missing here.

Thickeners in meat alternatives

Thickeners bind water and ensure that the products do not fall apart when being prepared. Methyl cellulose is often used for this. This must be labeled as an additive. Citrus fruit fibers, for example, do not need to be labeled. However, this is not the fruit, but also processed powder. The proportion of critical additives has fallen significantly in recent years. Salt is also used much less now.

Meat or meat substitutes – which is healthier?

According to Britta Schautz, both meat and substitute products can be eaten well, but in moderation. It's healthier to make vegan patties and the like yourself. This means that the healthy ingredients in the vegetables remain present and additives are avoided.

This video is an excerpt from the SWR health magazine Doc Fischer from August 15, 2022

Article image: Wikipedia
Description
English: Plant-based meat, vegan meat in a supermarket in Vienna, Austria
Date March 31, 2021
Source Own work
Author Table almost


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