Chapter 1: Understanding Veggie Burgers

In recent discussions, veggie burgers have been criticized for being unhealthy. Let's delve into this topic more deeply.

I'm not particularly fond of burgers, but every now and then, I enjoy a Beyond burger. When paired with air-fried potatoes, it makes for a meal that’s both budget-friendly and lower in calories compared to a conventional burger and fries. But is it genuinely healthier?

Lately, there's been a surge of online debates suggesting that veggie burgers are overly processed. This narrative emerged a few years back, fueled by several high-profile articles that disparaged veggie burgers, with smaller writers echoing similar sentiments.

Critics claim these burgers contain excessive sodium, unhealthy fats, and numerous processed components, but I largely find these assertions to be exaggerated. Additionally, it troubles me that some people feel entitled to critique the eating habits of others without any justification.

Choosing to eat veggie burgers does not adversely affect those who prefer not to consume them. In fact, plant-based meals are beneficial for our environment. Cows contribute nearly ten percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Even small shifts toward a plant-based diet can significantly reduce an individual's dietary carbon footprint.

I struggle to find valid reasons for disparaging plant-based options, except to promote meat consumption or alleviate personal guilt.

The brand that often draws the most ire is Beyond Meat, yet I believe its ingredient list is impressively clean. Here's a closer look at its label:

As indicated, the primary proteins are derived from lentils, rice, and peas. It is also non-GMO, contains no cholesterol, has only 14g of fat, and 310mg of sodium. The only processed item listed is methylcellulose, a common ingredient in fiber supplements. I find that acceptable.

In contrast, beef typically has higher saturated fat and cholesterol levels. While beef may have lower sodium content, many people add salt during cooking, and fast-food chains frequently incorporate sodium as well.

To provide a balanced viewpoint, some veggie burger brands might include multiple processed ingredients; however, I have yet to encounter anything alarming. The prevalence of processed ingredients, pesticides, and added growth hormones in the food industry makes it nearly impossible to avoid them altogether.

Unless you are raising the meat yourself, cultivating the tomatoes for the ketchup, and milling the flour for the bun, your burger is likely to come from cattle treated with antibiotics and hormones. Even grass-fed beef can come from cattle exposed to such substances. As noted by the University of Nebraska, no governing body oversees this issue.

Takeaway: Making informed choices sometimes requires reading scientific literature and examining ingredient labels. Human behavior often stems from emotion, and we all have biases. I strive not to judge others for their dietary selections. I ask that you extend the same courtesy to my choices. If veggie burgers aren’t your thing, that’s perfectly fine. Enjoy your next burger, no matter what type it may be! 🍔💖

Chapter 2: The Environmental Impact of Plant-Based Diets

As we consider the implications of our food choices, it’s essential to recognize the environmental benefits of plant-based diets.

In this video titled "Don't Watch Mr Beast | Nursery Rhyme," the importance of making informed dietary choices is explored, highlighting how these choices can affect our environment.

Chapter 3: Exploring Vegan Options

Another perspective on veggie burgers is presented in the music video "Kurtis Hoppie - Vegan Burgers," which celebrates plant-based eating.

This video showcases the joy and benefits of incorporating vegan burgers into one's diet, further promoting the idea that plant-based options can be delicious and nutritious.