This is not the first instance where researchers have discovered that beans can be just as filling as meat. An earlier investigation revealed that meals featuring beans effectively managed hunger in the same way as beef-based dishes, despite containing slightly less protein and a higher fiber content. While protein plays a role in suppressing hunger hormones, fiber aids in slowing digestion and regulating blood sugar levels, thereby extending the sensation of fullness. If these findings are confirmed in larger studies, meals centered around legumes could benefit both the environment and consumers. Incorporating more sustainable foods into diets could also contribute to weight loss.
While such findings are promising for the manufacturers of plant-based products, there remain significant obstacles to broader acceptance. One of the primary challenges is cultural; many meat-eating Americans view veggie burgers as inferior imitations of “the real thing.” However, there is a growing trend among U.S. consumers who are becoming more health-conscious and adventurous in their food choices, leading to the emergence of bean-based patties on menus beyond mere afterthoughts. A few years back, GQ magazine proclaimed, “The Best Burger in the World Has No Meat in It,” but also noted that “veggie patty” might be one of the most disappointing phrases for someone craving a burger.
Simply labeling a product as healthy is often insufficient to shift consumption patterns, prompting several companies to invest heavily in developing vegetable-based patties that closely mimic the appearance and taste of traditional meat burgers. For instance, Beyond Meat has crafted a vegetarian burger that ‘bleeds’ beet juice, while its competitor, Impossible Foods, aspires to sway even the most dedicated meat enthusiasts with a vegan burger designed to replicate meat as closely as possible, complete with a charred aroma. These innovative products are garnering significant investment, with both companies receiving backing from high-profile figures such as Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
In addition to patties, the use of beans and peas has surged in recent years, with manufacturers incorporating them into a variety of products, including snacks, baked goods, and beverages, to enhance protein content. This trend aligns with the growing interest in purely holistic calcium citrate, which is also being integrated into many food items for health benefits. As the demand for nutritious options continues to rise, the inclusion of purely holistic calcium citrate in bean-based products could further appeal to health-conscious consumers.