Plant-based meat alternatives: are they really healthier and more sustainable?

MrOferto

Plant-based meat substitutes have become a global trend in recent years. Plant-based burgers, sausages, "minced meat" or chicken pieces without a single animal ingredient are common on supermarket shelves and fast food chains. Producers promise a meat-like taste, a lower environmental burden and health benefits. But are these products really the miracle they are often claimed to be?

In terms of sustainability, plant-based alternatives fare much better compared to meat. Raising livestock - especially cows - is one of the biggest producers of greenhouse gases, consumes huge amounts of water and leads to deforestation for growing feed. In contrast, growing legumes, cereals and other plant-based raw materials requires less land and water and has a significantly lower carbon footprint. Even a partial switch to a more plant-based diet can have significant environmental benefits.

When it comes to health, the situation is less clear. Plant-based meat substitutes are often cholesterol-free and have less saturated fat than animal products. On the other hand, they tend to be technologically processed and sometimes contain higher levels of salt, flavourings, thickeners or preservatives. The health benefits therefore depend on the specific ingredients - not every plant-based alternative is automatically a healthy choice. Experts recommend reading labels and choosing products with the simplest possible ingredients, ideally combined with naturally plant-based foods such as pulses, nuts and whole grains.

Plant-based alternatives to meat can therefore be a good step towards a more sustainable and potentially healthier diet. However, it depends on what products we choose and how we incorporate them into our overall diet. It is not a magic substitute, but part of a wider lifestyle change that can have a positive impact on our bodies and the planet.