How do I reduce my meat consumption with tasty alternatives?

Are you on a quest to reduce your meat consumption?

Are you looking to diversify the protein sources on your weekly menu?

Sink your teeth into alternatives!

Meat substitutes and meat alternatives aren't just for vegans or vegetarians. Everyone can enjoy them!

Highly industrialized meat production systems and overconsumption of meat negatively impacts our world. 

The environment suffers from high emissions of greenhouse gases, reduction of natural resources, and environmental pollution.

Health consequences like cardiovascular disease can result from consuming too much animal protein.

Animal welfare and animal rights are also concerns shared by many people.   

By including meatless options in your menu, you can improve these negative effects!

Meat substitutes and meat alternatives replace meat as the protein source in a meal.

Meat Substitutes

are processed proteins.

• Some are made to look, feel and/or taste like meat, such as vegan sausage or vegan burger patties.

• Soy-based (tofu, tempeh), wheat-based (seitan),and textured vegetable protein (veggie chunks) are substitutes that don't aim to look, feel and/or taste like meat.

Meat Alternatives

are non-meat animal or plant-based protein sources.

• Protein-rich grains, legumes, beans, peas, vegetables, and fruits.

• Animal-based foods like fish, eggs, milk, and cheese.

You don't need to quit meat "cold turkey."

Reducing your meat consumption can be gradual, complete, or somewhere in between!

• Try a meatless version of your favorite recipe.

• Add a meatless day to your weekly menu. Check out Meat Free Mondays for some ideas.

• Be curious and explore some meat substitutes!

With a dash of the right seasonings, the appropriate cooking method, and complementing flavors, you can introduce something new to your taste buds!

See what appeals to your palate.

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Photo by Danny de Jong on Unsplash

Johnathan and Jada are planning a BBQ for the weekend.

They want an alternative to the traditional beef patty to fill their burger buns. Which of these could make a tasty burger?

Black bean burger patty

Vegan burger patty

BBQ pulled jackfruit

Grilled portobello mushroom

Reducing meat consumption is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Find what works best for you!