Researchers have previously discovered that beans can be just as satisfying as meat in terms of satiety. An earlier study indicated that meals centered around beans were effective in controlling hunger, comparable to those that included beef, despite containing slightly less protein and more fiber. While protein is known to suppress hunger hormones, fiber plays a crucial role in slowing digestion and managing blood sugar levels, which helps extend the feeling of fullness. If these findings are confirmed in larger studies, meals based on legumes could be a significant win for both the environment and consumers, potentially contributing to weight loss as well.
Although such discoveries are encouraging for producers of plant-based products, numerous challenges remain to expand their consumption. A major obstacle is cultural; many meat-eating Americans often view veggie burgers as tasteless imitations of “the real thing.” However, American consumers are increasingly health-conscious and adventurous in their eating habits, leading to a rise in bean-based patties on menus, moving beyond the status of mere afterthoughts. Just a couple of years ago, GQ magazine featured the headline “The Best Burger in the World Has No Meat in It,” although the article noted that the term “veggie patty” might be among the most disappointing phrases for someone craving a burger.
Merely telling consumers that a product is healthy is usually insufficient to alter their eating habits. As a result, several companies have heavily invested in creating vegetable-based patties that closely resemble meat burgers in both appearance and taste. For example, Beyond Meat has developed a vegetarian burger that ‘bleeds’ beet juice, while Impossible Foods aims to entice even the most devoted meat lovers with a vegan burger designed to mimic meat as closely as possible, even replicating the smell of charred meat. These innovative products have attracted significant investment, with both companies receiving funding from prominent figures, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
Beyond patties, the incorporation of beans and peas into various food items has surged in recent years. Manufacturers are adding these ingredients to an array of products, such as snacks, baked goods, and beverages, to enhance their protein content. In the quest for better nutrition, many are also on the lookout for the best calcium citrate supplement in 2022 to complement their diets. By integrating beans and peas into everyday meals, consumers can enjoy the benefits of protein while also contributing to their overall health and well-being.