Source medium.com
Hello there, foodies! When it comes to veggie burgers, the Beyond Burger has become one of the most popular choices. But have you ever wondered what’s inside this patty that makes it taste so much like real meat? If you’re looking to learn more about the ingredients that make up this plant-based burger, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Beyond Burger and its components.
What are the ingredients in Beyond Burger?
Beyond Burger is a plant-based burger patty that is designed to mimic the taste, look, and texture of meat. The company that manufactures Beyond Burger is called Beyond Meat, and it is known for its innovative approach to plant-based food. Their primary goal is to provide products that are both delicious and sustainable. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients that make up Beyond Burger.
The Beyond Burger is made with a variety of ingredients that work together to create a unique and satisfying flavor. One of the primary ingredients is pea protein isolate. Pea protein is an excellent source of amino acids, which are essential for building muscle and repairing tissue. Additionally, it is gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free, making it an excellent option for people with food sensitivities.
Another key ingredient in Beyond Burger is coconut oil. Coconut oil is a plant-based source of healthy fats that provide a rich, buttery flavor to the burger. It also helps to create a juicy, flavorful patty that is similar to beef.
The Beyond Burger also contains beet juice extract, an ingredient that gives the patty its signature pink color. Beet juice extract is a natural food coloring that is derived from beets. This ingredient is added to mimic the red color of beef and to make the burger look more like a traditional burger.
In addition to pea protein isolate, coconut oil, and beet juice extract, the Beyond Burger also contains a variety of other natural ingredients. These include potato starch, yeast extract, vegetable glycerin, methylcellulose, and salt. Each of these ingredients plays an important role in creating the texture and flavor of the burger.
Potato starch is added to help bind the ingredients together and to give the patty a firmer texture. Yeast extract provides a savory, umami flavor that is similar to the taste of beef. Vegetable glycerin is a natural sweetener that helps to balance out the flavors in the burger. Methylcellulose is a plant-based ingredient that helps to hold the patty together and prevent it from falling apart during cooking. Salt is added to enhance the overall flavor of the burger.
Overall, the combination of these ingredients creates a plant-based burger patty that is both flavorful and satisfying. The Beyond Burger is a great option for people who are looking for a meat-free alternative to traditional burgers. It is a perfect example of how plant-based food can be both delicious and sustainable.
Why is Beyond Burger gaining popularity?
Beyond Burger is gaining popularity not only among vegetarians and vegans but also among people who prefer meat-based products. The reason behind its popularity lies in its plant-based ingredients, which make it a healthy and environmentally friendly option.
A Shift Towards Plant-Based Diets
Beyond Burger is a plant-based burger packed with protein and minerals, making it a healthier option than meat-based burgers. Eating a plant-based diet is becoming increasingly popular because of its numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, plant-based diets are known for their low cholesterol and saturated fat content, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.
The Beyond Burger has been specifically designed to provide as much nutrition as possible while being entirely plant-based. The burger is made from pea protein isolate, which provides the protein content and potato starch and coconut oil that gives it the juicy texture we all love.
Environmentally Friendly Choice
Another reason for the increasing popularity of Beyond Burger is its ecological benefits. The production of meat has a significant environmental impact, including the emission of greenhouse gases, deforestation, and water pollution. However, plant-based burger production is not as detrimental to the environment. For example, Beyond Burger requires a lot less water and creates fewer greenhouse gases and land use compared to traditional meat-based burgers.
Beyond Burger is an exceptional choice for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and eat food that is kinder to the environment. According to the Beyond Meat website, its burger produces 90% less greenhouse gas emissions, requires 99% less water, and uses 93% less land than a beef burger.
Great Taste and Versatility
Beyond Burger has been designed to taste like meat. Nevertheless, it is entirely plant-based. It has therefore become a popular choice for meat-eaters who want to reduce their meat consumption without compromising taste.
The Beyond Burger has a juicy texture and rich flavor. Unsurprisingly, many restaurants have begun to include it within their menu. In addition, it is versatile and can be cooked in various ways. You can grill it, fry it, or even bake it. You can use it to make a burger, meatloaf, or meatball. Vegetarians and vegans often find it challenging to find a versatile meat substitute, but the Beyond Burger solves this problem, being a great substitute for meat-based products.
Easy to Find
Beyond Meat prides itself on being widely available across the country, making it easier for consumers to try its products. Apart from supermarkets, customers can find Beyond Burger at various fast-food chains such as Subway and Dunkin’ Donuts. This increased availability has significantly contributed to Beyond Burger’s rising popularity.
Conclusion:
Beyond Burger has become a popular choice for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a plant-based option that is good for their health and the environment. Its exceptional taste, versatility, nutritional value, and accessibility make it a popular choice for meat-eaters as well. As more people become aware of the impact of meat production on the environment and their health, we can expect to see Beyond Burger’s popularity continue to grow.
Nutritional Benefits of Beyond Burger Ingredients
The Beyond Burger is a plant-based burger made to resemble a traditional beef burger. It is made from a blend of pea protein isolates, expeller-pressed canola oil, refined coconut oil, rice protein, potato starch, and other ingredients. This burger is aimed at providing the experience of meat without using any animal products, and it is designed to be an alternative to meat-based burgers. In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits of the Beyond Burger ingredients.
1. Protein Content
The primary ingredient of the Beyond Burger is pea protein, which makes up 20g of protein per patty. Pea protein is a high-quality protein that is rich in amino acids and is easily digestible. Protein is an essential nutrient required to support the growth and repair of tissues, including muscles, skin, and bones. The protein content in the Beyond Burger makes it a great alternative for vegetarians or individuals who wish to reduce their meat intake.
2. Low Saturated Fat Content
The Beyond Burger is low in saturated fat, which is a good thing for people who are looking to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The burger contains 5g of saturated fat, which is relatively low compared to a traditional beef burger, which contains about 8g of saturated fat. The low saturated fat content in the Beyond Burger makes it a great option for individuals who are mindful of their calorie and fat intake.
3. Vitamins and Minerals
The Beyond Burger contains several vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health. It is fortified with vitamins B12 and D, which are usually found in animal products. Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells, while vitamin D is essential for bone health and immunity. The Beyond Burger is also a great source of iron, which is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, and zinc, which is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. In addition, the burger contains calcium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and regulating blood pressure levels.
In conclusion, the Beyond Burger is a plant-based burger that provides several nutritional benefits. It is a great source of protein, low in saturated fat, and contains essential vitamins and minerals. The Beyond Burger is an excellent option for vegetarians, individuals who wish to reduce their meat intake, and people who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional burgers. So, the next time you are in the mood for a burger, consider the Beyond Burger as a delicious and healthy alternative.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact of Beyond Burger Ingredients
Beyond Burger is a plant-based burger that promises the taste and texture of a beef patty without the environmental impact. The meatless burger sensation has exploded onto the market, with more and more people choosing Beyond Burger as their preferred meat alternative. The sustainability and environmental impact of Beyond Burger ingredients have been a topic of conversation and consideration, especially in the context of the current state of the environment and climate change.
Here are four key factors that contribute to the sustainability and environmental impact of Beyond Burger ingredients:
Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions from the livestock sector are a significant contributor to climate change. According to a 2013 report published by the United Nations, the livestock sector generates more greenhouse gas emissions than the entire transportation sector. The Beyond Burger, on the other hand, generates 90% less greenhouse gas emissions than a traditional beef patty. That’s a significant reduction in emissions, making Beyond Burger a more sustainable option when it comes to the environment and climate change.
Water Usage
Agriculture accounts for a significant portion of water usage globally, with the production of beef being one of the most water-intensive industries. The production of Beyond Burger requires significantly less water than the production of beef patties. According to a report by the University of Michigan, the production of a quarter-pound Beyond Burger patty requires 99% less water than a quarter-pound beef patty. This is a significant reduction in water consumption, indicating that Beyond Burger is a more sustainable option when it comes to water usage.
Land Use
The global demand for meat has led to deforestation, with vast tracts of land being cleared for livestock grazing and feed production. This deforestation contributes significantly to climate change and has a negative impact on biodiversity. Producing Beyond Burger requires significantly less land than producing beef patties. According to a report by the University of Michigan, producing a quarter-pound Beyond Burger patty requires 93% less land than producing a quarter-pound beef patty. This is a significant reduction in land use and indicates that Beyond Burger is a more sustainable option when it comes to land use.
Food Security and Sustainability
As the global population grows, food security becomes an increasingly important issue. The traditional livestock industry requires enormous amounts of feed to sustain the animals, which has led to competition with human food sources. By utilizing plant-based ingredients, Beyond Burger represents a more sustainable option. Plant-based agriculture requires significantly fewer resources than animal-based agriculture, making it better for food security in the long-term.
In conclusion, the sustainability and environmental impact of Beyond Burger ingredients are significantly better than traditional beef patties. Beyond Burger requires less water, land, and generates far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the traditional meat industry. As people become more environmentally conscious, it’s essential to consider the impact of our food choices on the planet and Beyond Burger is a step in the right direction.
Addressing concerns and controversies surrounding Beyond Burger ingredients
Beyond Meat’s Beyond Burger is an alternative to meat-based burgers that has taken the world by storm. However, as with all novel food sources, there has been skepticism about its safety, ethical concerns and possible health effects. Thus, here are some of the concerns and controversies surrounding Beyond Burger ingredients:
1. GMO Soy
The Beyond Burger’s main source of protein is from genetically modified soy, which has raised alarm amongst some consumers. However, it is important to remember that there is no evidence suggesting that GMO soy is harmful to human health. Additionally, the soy in Beyond Burger is sourced from the United States, where it is highly regulated for safety. In fact, the World Health Organization states that consuming GMO soy is safe for human consumption. Moreover, Beyond Meat’s GMO soy is non-allergenic and environmentally friendly, improving the sustainability of food production.
2. Pea Protein
The second most significant ingredient in Beyond Burger is pea protein isolate, which is also highly controversial. Some believe that pea protein isolate increases purine levels in the body, leading to uric acid buildup and gout. However, this has been debunked, with studies suggesting no increased risk for gout or kidney disease from consuming pea protein isolate. Similarly, there is no reason to believe that pea protein isolate contributes to the risk of cancer.
3. Coconuts and Canola Oil
Coconut oil and canola oil are both used in the Beyond Burger to enhance flavor and texture. Some are hesitant about consuming these ingredients due to concerns about saturated fat and genetically modified crops. Nevertheless, the amount of coconut oil and canola oil in the Beyond Burger is small and should not cause significant harm to one’s health. Importantly, coconut oil is proven to be a healthy fat source that doesn’t raise cholesterol levels, and the canola oil used is non-GMO.
4. Methylcellulose
Methylcellulose is an industry validated texturizer and emulsifier used in many processed foods, including the Beyond Burger. Critics have suggested that it may cause intestinal discomfort and other side effects, but research has not substantiated these claims. In reality, methylcellulose has been shown to be safe and is typically used by those who are gluten intolerant or have other underlying digestive issues, indicating it may even have potential health benefits for some individuals.
5. High Sodium Content
One valid complaint about Beyond Burger is its high sodium content. Salt is used to enhance flavor and extend shelf life, with Beyond Burger having 390 mg of sodium per 4oz patty, which is almost 17% of the recommended daily intake. As such, people on low sodium diets may have to avoid the product, or consume in moderation. Nonetheless, recently, Beyond Meat has released a reformulated version of the Beyond Burger with 35% less sodium
In summary, while there are questions about the Beyond Burger’s ingredients, the evidence suggests it is safe, healthy, and a good source of protein for those seeking a meat-free alternative. The Beyond Burger uses high-quality ingredients sourced from environmentally sustainable sources and non-GMO products. It is important to note that beyond meat is continuously innovating to improve the health benefits of their products, resulting in the reformulation of the Beyond Burger to decrease sodium content.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the ingredients in the Beyond Burger. Overall, the burger contains a blend of plant-based proteins and oils that make it a delicious and sustainable alternative to meat-based burgers. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to reduce your meat intake, the Beyond Burger is a great option that can satisfy your cravings and contribute to a healthier planet.