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Photo:Courtesy of Brand
Courtesy of Brand
Incorporating more plant-based foods into your eating pattern can offer upmany health benefitslike better nutrition, a healthier heart and lowered risk of chronic disease. However, there is a common misconception that “plant-based” is synonymous with “healthier,” which may not always be the case. This has resulted in somecontroversy over meat alternatives.
Addressing some of the concerns associated with vegan “meats”,Beyond Meat, one of the most popular plant-based brands, is soon releasing theirnewest formulafor their line of “beef” products. From a shorter, more simplified ingredient list to changes on the nutrition label, the company claims to have improved the meat alternative on many fronts. But you might be wondering whether these changes are really that significant.
EatingWell’s senior nutrition editor and nutrition expertMaria Laura Haddad-Garciaweighed in on the changes to Beyond Beef and whether they’re truly healthy improvements. Read on for her take on the alterations to the plant-based beef alternative.
Beyond Beef’s Nutrition and Ingredient Changes
More Plant-Based Protein
One of the first changes you’ll notice in the new Beyond Beef is a few differences in the ingredients list. Currently, the majority of the protein comes from peas and rice. With the new release, the company says it will be adding protein from other nutrient-dense foods like red lentil and fava bean. This may make the item more viable as a protein source for aplant-based eating pattern.
According to Haddad-Garcia, “You can definitely get enough protein from plant-based foods, such as legumes, nuts and seeds. The key is making sure you vary the foods to get all the essential amino acids needed. While the protein content didn’t change much—just amped up 1 gram per serving—it’s a high-protein option that will help you feel satisfied for longer.”
Heart-Healthy Nutrition
The brand has also made a change in the cooking oil they use. The new Beyond Beef will use avocado oil to replace the current coconut oil and canola oil, making it easier to cook at high temperatures (and on the grill).
Avocado Oil vs. Coconut Oil: Which Is Healthier?
New Certifications
The American Heart Association Just Redefined Heart Disease Risk—Here’s What You Need to Know
The Bottom Line
Beyond Meat just announced the release of their newest plant-based Beyond Beef products, including the Beyond Burger patties.
Customers will see changes in the product’s ingredient list and nutrition label that may have benefits for those following a plant-based eating pattern and may also support heart health.
No exact release date was released, but the Beyond Beef and Beyond Burger items are expected to be in grocery stores nationwide starting this spring. In the meantime, you might want to make some delicious, homemade plant-based beef and burger recipes. Try flavorful dishes like ourBeefless Vegan TacosandVegan Black Bean Burgers—they’re highly rated for a reason!
Up next:Joy Bauer Just Shared This Easy 3-Ingredient Recipe for Plant-Based Meat—and It’s Packed with Fiber
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