Introduction
Food Industry is one of biggest growing industries in the world. It is a complex network of diverse businesses that supplies most of the food consumed by the world’s population. In the recent years, food industry has witnessed some great inventions, innovation and trends that improves our food consumption experience. These trends are changing drastically depending on consumer demand, market conditions, technological advances and much more. And one such advancement towards which the industry is transitioning to is the use of Plant-based Meat Analogues.
What is Plant-Based Meat?
Plant-Based Meat Alternatives are basically designed to mimic the sensory experience and nutritional value of Red Meat. These meat alternatives are basically made from Pea Protein, Tempeh, Jackfruit, Tofu, Lentils, Black Beans, Chickpeas, etc.
Reasons for The Drift
There are many reasons seen for drift towards meat substitutes like health, as consumption of red meat leads to problems like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc. Environment is another main reason seen for the recent changes, as meat industry is the main source of greenhouse gases and the reason for greater adoption of veganism in different parts of the world. Animal welfare and economic factors also promote these meat analogues.
Chemistry of Meat
Animal meat consists of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water and muscle tissues that are made of the spatial arrangement of protein which gives it distinct texture. In case of plants, it consists of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water but no muscles tissues. Taking advantage of these biochemical similarities along with some mechanical, chemical and biological treatment, plant-based alternatives can be formed.
Processing Technology
In case of these alternatives, the main scope is to achieve a texture, taste and appearance similar to our animal meat. Hence, currently, Motif FoodWorks, a food technology company has announced that it has gained exclusive access to technology that can change consumers’ experience of plant-based foods. The company is working with Professor Alejandro Marangoni and the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada to develop plant-based meat with healthier, marbleized fat through extrudable fat technology. Extrudable fat technology mimics animal fat in plant-based meats, which allows for more authentic fat textures such as marbling. The technology allows you to run fat through an extruder and then combine it with protein to create a better ingredient where the fat and the protein are physically linked together. The technology aims to integrate fat and protein in order to give a better feel. Other companies in this field are Beyond Meat, Gardein, Quorn Foods, etc.
Advantages
Plant-based meat analogues are the most convenient alternative for red meat, as it is appealing to the eyes and ensures the similar taste and texture of red meat. It is the best alternative to help in the transition towards a plant-based diet. Reduction of cardiovascular diseases and cancer along better digestion and managing weight are some inherent advantages of plant-based meat alternatives. These alternatives promise for better sustainable environment as its production requires less water, land and extensively reduce greenhouse gas emissions according to the Good Food Institute. These products are better in fibre content too.
Disadvantages
For a person who consumes red meat, the drift toward plant-based options can lead to the reduction in his nutrition intake, as compared to red meat which can be altered by using different health supplements. More studies are required to be done in order to validate whether these benefits would last long-term for plant-based meat eaters. This is because plant-based meat alternatives which are highly processed contain up to 6 times more sodium than animal meat on average and they may contain added sugars, artificial colouring and additives such as carrageenan and methylcellulose, in addition to refined oils and other bulking agents.
Global Market
Now, when we look at some numbers, globally the market size of such products is USD 5.06 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.3% from 2022 to 2030. In India, the market size for these products will be valued at approximately 59 billion Indian rupees in 2030. The increasing interest towards vegan diet coupled with the rising consciousness of animal rights through different organizations drive the market.
Conclusion
Unlike the boomers, generation X and the millennials, the upcoming generation Z is extremely conscious about what they consume, wear, buy and follow. From changing to organic and cruelty-free products, this generation is known to make conscious choices that have no ill effects on the environment. In a whole, plant-based meat alternatives are here to stay! It is the most efficient method to a healthy living and sustainable environment. For meat lovers, these options would not completely fulfill their eating experience, as compared to their spicy, tender and juicy piece of meat. To cater to these problems, leading food companies are bringing new technologies and innovations that would make the eating experience a memorable one. So, to all the meat lovers out there – What do you think? Should we go MEATLESS?
References:
1. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2020.00134/full
2. https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/plant-based-meat
3. https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/plant-based-meats-trends-list/
4. https://www.imarcgroup.com/plant-based-meat-companies
5. https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/switching-to-plant-based-meat-check-out-its-nutritional-pros-and-cons-for-your-diet-101675920025228.html
6. https://www.forbes.com/sites/johncumbers/2021/05/13/how-new-technology-is-making-plant-based-foods-taste-and-look-better/?sh=6e2f3eb9585e
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