This post is NOT sponsored and thoughts are of author’s own.
Summer 2019 has well and truly arrived. For many, the season brings with it the nostalgia of cocktail-fuelled summers past, and an opportunity to relive traditions – backyard barbecues one such tradition loved by all.
But this summer, we are going to explore new, plant-based, clean ideas that have recently become the new normal- reshaping traditions for something more fresh and modern. We have very good reasons why. Let’s start with basic facts that are hard to ignore:
- Animal agriculture is the leading cause of ocean dead zones, deforestation, and species extinction;
- It is responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than all global transportation combined.
- The UN Environment Assembly named the meat industry one of the world’s most “urgent problems.”
In addition, there are a multitude of studies spread all over the media and internet, supporting health benefits of going meat-free specifically red meat. Better skin, sleep, reduced anxiety, depression, greater digestion- the benefits are endless. Fortunately, we live in deliciously creative times and have every power to address this. It’s easier – and more delicious – than you might think. All you need to do is say ‘hello’ to the modern plant-based burger and embrace the exciting new age of eco-friendly eating.
In this feature, I will be writing about a plant-burger that has taken the world (not just the US) by storm- Beyond Burger.
Created by Ethan Brown’s Cali-based startup Beyond Meat, this plant-based patty is paving the way to a brighter future, offering an innovative approach to burgers, sausage, meat, and the environmental impact of our food. Debuting in 2016, the Beyond Burger found fame for its meat-like ‘bleeding’ texture, taste, and even smell. It “looks, cooks, and satisfies like beef,” becoming the first vegan meat to be sold in supermarket meat sections. Even giant meat supplier Tyson Foods invested in the company, explaining to Feedstuffs, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right?”
And, entering territory previously uncharted by a plant-based patty, the Beyond Burger is a favorite among meat-lovers and environmentalists alike.
Dubbed “the future of protein,” the Beyond Burger offers comparable protein content to beef burgers, but is made from pea protein, rice protein, mung bean protein. Its ingredients ensure the mouth-watering taste of beef all while addressing global resource constraints, and improving public health and animal welfare. As an added bonus, the burger is free from gluten, soy, and GMOs. The positive impact it can make is undeniable, and pretty inspiring.
- The University of Michigan’s Center for Sustainable Resources forecasts that if the average American swaps out one beef burger a week for the Beyond Burger, they will save enough energy to power 2.3 million homes.
- The United Nations Environment Programme awarded Beyond Meat the title of 2018 ‘Champion of the Earth.’
Beyond Meat says, “we want to make the world a better place and we’re starting one delicious meal at a time.” So this summer we’re embracing modern plant-based eating and trying out the Beyond products amongst other delicious plant based . And we’re pretty excited about it. Our barbecues will be sizzling and delicious as tradition would have you remember, but moving beyond the cons of beef into an innovative new realm of plant-based deliciousness.
