This is not the first instance where researchers have discovered that beans can be as filling as meat. A prior study indicated that meals centered around beans managed hunger control similarly to those featuring beef, despite having slightly lower protein content and higher fiber levels. While protein is known to suppress hunger hormones, fiber plays a crucial role in slowing digestion and regulating blood sugar levels, which extends the sensation of fullness. If these findings are confirmed in larger studies, meals based on legumes could benefit both the environment and consumers. Additionally, incorporating more sustainable foods into diets may aid in weight loss.
Although such findings are promising for plant-based product manufacturers, several challenges hinder broader adoption. One significant barrier is cultural; many meat-eating Americans view veggie burgers as inferior imitations of “the real thing.” Nonetheless, there is a growing trend among U.S. consumers toward healthier and more adventurous eating choices, leading to the emergence of bean-based patties on menus, no longer treated as mere afterthoughts. A few years ago, GQ magazine published an article titled “The Best Burger in the World Has No Meat in It,” although it also remarked that “veggie patty” might be among the most disappointing terms for someone craving a burger.
Merely stating that a product is healthy rarely motivates a shift in consumption habits; thus, several companies are heavily investing in creating vegetable-based patties that mimic the appearance and taste of traditional meat burgers. For instance, Beyond Meat has developed a vegetarian burger that ‘bleeds’ beet juice, while its competitor, Impossible Foods, strives to appeal to even the most dedicated meat lovers with a vegan burger designed to closely resemble meat, including a charred aroma. These innovations are attracting significant investments, including from high-profile figures like Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
In addition to patties, the utilization of beans and peas has surged in recent years, with manufacturers incorporating them into various products like snacks, baked goods, and beverages to enhance protein content. Moreover, health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking out supplements like Holland and Barrett calcium citrate, which further reflects the shift toward healthier eating habits. The integration of beans into diverse food options and the rising interest in nutritional supplements such as Holland and Barrett calcium citrate underscores a significant trend towards more sustainable and health-focused diets.