Humans logo

The Best Substitutes For Meat

Vegetarians can enjoy the benefits of meat too!

By Arnold OdhiamboPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
The Best Substitutes For Meat
Photo by jevgeni mironov on Unsplash

In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards plant-based diets, driven by concerns over the environmental impact of meat production, the ethical treatment of animals, and the health benefits of a diet rich in plant-based proteins. As a result, many people are looking for alternatives to meat, and there are now many meat substitutes available in supermarkets, health food stores, and online. In this review, we will take a comprehensive look at the best substitutes for meat, based on scientific evidence and nutritional analysis.

One of the most popular and well-known meat substitutes is tofu. Tofu is made from soybeans and has a mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. It is also high in protein and low in fat, which makes it a healthy alternative to meat. A 100g serving of tofu contains around 8g of protein, which is comparable to the amount of protein found in a serving of lean meat. Tofu is also a good source of iron, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

Another soy-based meat substitute is tempeh, which is made from fermented soybeans. Tempeh has a firmer texture than tofu and a nuttier flavor, making it a good option for those who prefer a more substantial meat substitute. Like tofu, tempeh is high in protein and other essential nutrients, and it is also a good source of probiotics, which can help to improve digestive health.

For those who prefer a wheat-based meat substitute, seitan is an excellent option. Seitan is made from wheat gluten and has a meaty texture that makes it a popular choice for dishes like stews and casseroles. A 100g serving of seitan contains around 25g of protein, which is more than the amount of protein found in most types of meat. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy alternative to meat.

Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans, are another excellent source of plant-based protein. A 100g serving of cooked lentils contains around 9g of protein, while a 100g serving of cooked chickpeas contains around 7g of protein. Legumes are also rich in fiber, which can help to improve digestion and promote feelings of fullness, making them a great option for those looking to manage their weight. In addition to their high protein and fiber content, legumes are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and folate.

Mushrooms are another popular meat substitute, thanks to their meaty texture and umami flavor. Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, which is important for bone health.

Jackfruit is a relatively new meat substitute that has become popular in recent years. Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that has a stringy, meat-like texture when cooked, making it an excellent substitute for pulled pork or shredded chicken. A 100g serving of jackfruit contains around 2g of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy alternative to meat. Jackfruit is also rich in fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and improve digestion.

Quorn is a meat substitute made from a type of fungus called mycoprotein. Quorn is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy alternative to meat. A 100g serving of Quorn contains around 13g of protein, which is similar to the amount of protein found in a serving of lean meat. Quorn is also a good source of fiber, which can help to improve digestion and promote

For more comprehensive information on the same, I would reccomend the book The Best Substitutes For Meat

adviceproduct review

About the Creator

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.