Ever find yourself biting into a beyond meat burger, thinking “This is delicious but what am I even eating?” Or, maybe the mystery has kept you from venturing beyond your routine. 

We’ve saved you a trip down an internet rabbit hole by answering your big questions about plant-based meat. Read on to take more comfort from the latest comfort food.

5 FAQs About Meat Alternatives

What is plant-based meat made from?

Plant-based meat is made from a combo of proteins, fats, spices, and carbs. There are a few popular types you’ve probably seen out there:

• Beyond Meat: This popular brand is key for our main vegetarian/vegan option: the beyond meat burger. The patty is made from pea protein, rice, beans, potatoes, and dried yeast. At BFF, you can get almost any of our burgers with beyond meat instead of AAA halal beef. Your tastebuds will, in the words of Buzz Lightyear, travel “to infinity and beyond”.
• Seitan: Sounds like the devil, but we swear it’s good for you. Seitan is made from wheat gluten and is often used in stir-frys and sandwiches. It has a chewier texture than beyond meat, and the taste is comparable to chicken or mushrooms.
• Soy-Based: This is one of the OG meat alternatives, and is made from legumes (a fancy way of saying beans, peas, and lentils). The flavor is subtle and ideal for trying in your favorite meat-based recipes. Tofu and tempeh are two popular go-tos.

What are the benefits of plant-based meat?

Plant-based meat is generally better for the environment than regular meat. It takes less water and land to make, and it creates fewer greenhouse gasses. 

It’s also becoming increasingly popular, so you can find it easily at local shops and restaurants (🙋).

How does it taste?

Plant-based products are sometimes made to taste like beef or chicken. But, honestly, we think it's a good idea to see plant-based meats as a thing of their own. That way, you can appreciate the flavors without an ongoing comparison. In other words, don’t treat meat alternatives like meat’s dorky younger sibling.

So, meat alternatives aren't grown in a lab?

No, plant-based meat is not grown in a lab. Although, apparently that’s a thing with real meat and we didn’t even realize it until now. Anyway, most meat alternatives are made from simple, plant-based ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store.

Is plant-based meat healthier than OG meat?

Plant-based meats are not necessarily healthier than regular meat, but they do have some benefits. They can be lower in fat and calories than real meat and they also tend to be high in protein and fiber. Let’s just say, it’ll probably go down a little easier.

On the other hand, some plant-based meats may be high in sodium or have about the same amount as meat. But hey– you can go out to a burger restaurant and indulge with your BFFS even if you’re a vegetarian. 

Meat alternatives have popped up on menus all over the city. For vegetarians and curious eaters, this means more options for eating out. Hopefully, you've now got the info you need to try out or continue enjoying sustainable and tasty meat alternatives.

Order a Beyond Meat Burger from BFF

At BFF, you can opt for a beyond meat patty with any of our classic smash burgers. We aren’t your typical burger n’ fries joint. Our food helps to remove barriers and unite people from different backgrounds over memorable and nostalgic flavors. With quality ingredients and creative combos, we aim to be your (tastebuds’) BFF. Stop by one of our locations in Ottawa or Toronto. 

Order takeout or delivery directly through our website, and tag us in pics of your fave BFF foods @burgersnfriesforever.