Plant-Based Meat Market: Pros and Cons

Plant-Based Meat Market is expanding rapidly as consumers seek sustainable, health-conscious alternatives to traditional meat. Driven by innovations in food

As there has been advanced development in the food and beverage industry, a vegan now can also consume meat. Instead, it derives from plants. Even though it is not real meat, many plant-based meats also have the same tastes and flavors as the original ones. As it offers delicious tastes and new experiences of eating, this kind of meat is not limited to vegetarians only, but it is enjoyable for everyone.

This meat is increasingly gaining traction in various countries, which drives demand for the plant-based meat market. According to a prominent research firm, GMI Research, the plant-based meat market touched USD 5,642 million in 2022 and would reach USD 17,994 million in 2030. This rapid development is due to the growing population of vegetarians across the globe alongside the increasing concern about animal welfare.

The Advantages

There are some benefits from this meat that drives its popularity in many countries.

1. In accordance with sustainability efforts

In comparison to real meat, plant-based meat offers greater environmental sustainability, attributed to the resources needed for meat production. For instance, plant-based meat products use less water usage and land during the production process while contributing to lower emissions from greenhouse gas. This is applicable whether the meat is substitutes for pork, chicken, or beef.

2. Contain more fiber

Not all plant-based meat includes fiber-rich plant ingredients along with plant-based protein. Choosing a plant-based product with fiber over real meat will contribute to a higher daily fiber intake. Making this switch can enhance satisfaction and support your health goals by fulfilling the daily fiber requirements. Consuming the recommended fiber amount has been associated with enhanced digestive and cardiovascular health, and potentially easier weight management.

3. Minimize the risk of foodborne disease

Plant-based meat may present a safer choice than real meat, as it has less possibility for bacteria that can result in foodborne diseases. However, there are no guarantees because all food items including plant-based ones carry the risk of exposure to bacteria. Therefore, it is important to follow proper food safety protocols when handling and cooking plant-based meat.

4. Decrease red meat consumption

Reducing red meat consumption has demonstrated numerous health benefits, such as reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. Many plant-based meat options serve as a delicious substitute to processed meats such as bacon, sausage or products like chicken patties and burgers.

5. More affordable

In comparison to real meat, plant-based products can be more affordable as the commodity price of vegetables is less expensive. Therefore, it can be the perfect solution for people who like to eat meat but at the same time still want to save costs. Meat that derives from plants also has a delicious taste and has similar texture to real meat.

The Disadvantages

Despite its many benefits, there are downsides to this product as well.

1. Commonly undergoes extensive processing

The preparation methods of this product vary greatly, with certain products undergoing more extensive processing than others. This product is commonly highly processed even more in comparison to real meat. As it is widely recognized, eating processed foods in large quantities is attributed to many negative impacts to health over time. That includes fatness and elevated likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome. Cutting down on processed food consumption and consuming healthier options is a positive dietary change. It is better to integrate plant-based alternatives into your meals, without relying on them as a primary component.

2. Contains excessive sodium and saturated fat

Many plant-based meats contain high levels of sodium with certain products containing over 600 milligrams per serving. Consuming excessive sodium can bring negative health impacts such as rising blood pressure and overall heart health. To overcome this, you should control your sodium intake daily in other meals after consuming plant-based meat.

Not only sodium, but this product also contains high saturated fat. That can happen since many brands utilize palm or coconut oil in the production process. Both of the oils contain high saturated fat and can have the same impact as the one that comes from animals. To address this, it is important for consumers to be aware of the nutrition labels and limit the consumption of the fats.

3. It is not a real meat

Last but not least, this product is not real meat. It may lack nutrition and other benefits that consumers can get from real meat such as animal protein, zinc, and other essential elements. The plant-based product may be similar to its counterpart in terms of taste and texture. However, when it comes to the nutrient, it may lack thereof. Therefore, while supporting the growth of the plant-based meat market, it is important for the consumers, especially the vegetarians to ensure daily nutrition by consuming other high-nutrients meals and beverages.