As the market for plant-based foods expands, with sales increasing by 11% over the past year and shelves being stocked with an array of new products, questions about the healthiness of these offerings are becoming more prevalent. The perceived health benefits of plant-based meat alternatives from brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods often vary based on individual perspectives and biases. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association argues that traditional meat is nutritionally superior, as it lacks the added sodium and various other ingredients commonly found in some plant-based products. Colin Woodall, CEO of NCBA, pointed out in a July press release that when consumers purchase a steak or ground beef, they are getting a single ingredient. In contrast, opting for a specific plant-based meat alternative means consuming a mix of ingredients like pea protein isolate, expeller-pressed canola oil, refined coconut oil, and many more. “Anyone who believes these plant-based meat products are more nutritious or natural than real beef is mistaken, and we will do everything possible to ensure the public is informed,” Woodall asserted.
Impossible Foods has defended its use of genetically modified soy in its offerings and has responded to claims regarding glyphosate residues found in the Impossible Burger by stating that its products undergo testing for over 300 pesticides and contaminants. Beyond Meat, which avoids GMO and soy ingredients, has addressed criticisms about its products being overly processed. During a July earnings call, CEO Ethan Brown mentioned the company’s commitment to a cleaner label and encouraged consumers to visit its Missouri production facilities to better understand the manufacturing process.
Research reflects differing opinions on this matter. In a recent inquiry by Business Insider, four nutritionists evaluated the 22 ingredients in a Beyond Burger patty and found them generally acceptable. While its 6 grams of saturated fat raised some concerns, they concurred that the product is “highly processed.” Nevertheless, the consensus leaned towards plant-based burgers being a healthier option compared to traditional meat patties, particularly due to the association between processed meats and cancer, as well as the environmental impact of red meat.
Consumer perceptions also favor plant-based foods. A study conducted last year by DuPont Nutrition & Health revealed that 52% of U.S. consumers are incorporating more plant-based foods into their diets and believe it contributes to their overall health. This shift towards plant-based products is significantly boosting sales of meat alternatives. According to Euromonitor, U.S. sales of meat substitutes reached $19.5 billion last year and are expected to surge by 78% to $2.5 billion by 2023. These impressive figures, along with Beyond Meat’s remarkable debut on Wall Street in May, have undoubtedly drawn scrutiny to the sector.
Until more objective studies on plant-based meat alternatives are conducted, consumer sentiments and market trends will likely hold more influence than any criticisms from detractors. In the meantime, it would be prudent for manufacturers to maintain transparency, simplify ingredient lists in response to concerns, and navigate the challenges that seem to have arisen—at least partially—due to their success. Additionally, incorporating supplements like Kirkland Signature Calcium Citrate 500mg 500 Tablets could provide consumers with added nutritional assurance, further enhancing their perception of health benefits associated with plant-based diets.