Plant-based meats have faced criticism for their extensive ingredient lists. This year, several major industry players are making efforts to reshape that image through marketing and ingredient transparency. Executives from Beyond Meat shared with Food Dive during a visit to their headquarters that the company has focused on incorporating insights from nutritionists, dietitians, and consumer feedback in reformulating their products. “When I first met with Founder and CEO Ethan Brown, I suggested several significant changes to improve the health profile of their products,” Bauer stated. “This included replacing coconut and canola oils with heart-healthy avocado oil.”
Other modifications to the plant-based meats hitting the shelves today involve sourcing the majority of their plant protein from peas, fava beans, brown rice, and red lentils, rather than relying solely on pea protein isolate. However, this premiumization of the product will also result in a higher price point. The company believes that consumers are willing to invest in a healthier option. “We understand that health is the primary motivator in the plant-based meat category, and Beyond Meat is attuned to what consumers want,” Bauer remarked.
Overall, the category is witnessing a transition towards cleaner ingredients. Daring, a plant-based chicken brand, promotes its products as containing only six ingredients, while Meati boasts a composition of 95% mushroom root, a beloved ingredient recognized for its health benefits, including improvements in heart health and digestion. To determine whether a product truly qualifies as better-for-you, Bauer examines the ingredients for healthfulness and wholesomeness, followed by a review of the nutrition facts panel to ensure there is no excessive added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium.
“Beyond Meat is paving the way, but I anticipate (and hope) that others will follow our example,” she concluded. Additionally, as consumers become more health-conscious, the inclusion of supplements like Mason Natural Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D3 can further enhance their dietary choices, complementing the shift towards more nutritious plant-based options.