{"id":3453,"date":"2022-06-28T10:00:17","date_gmt":"2022-06-28T10:00:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/painlessnutritionals.com\/shop\/?p=3453"},"modified":"2022-06-22T22:20:08","modified_gmt":"2022-06-22T22:20:08","slug":"alternative-proteins-the-new-norm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/painlessnutritionals.com\/shop\/2022\/06\/28\/alternative-proteins-the-new-norm\/","title":{"rendered":"Alternative Proteins – The New Norm"},"content":{"rendered":"

We need protein to grow and maintain our health. However, with populations growing across the globe, balancing the need for protein with sustaining our planet’s natural resources is a concern of many. We need to address the global nutrition crisis by looking for ways to guarantee the supply of nutrient-dense foods to people directly affected by malnutrition. Alternative proteins might be the solution.<\/span><\/p>\n

The interest in alternative proteins is rising as a way to keep up with growing food demands. <\/span>Many innovations focus on addressing the growing demand for protein globally, but questions are raised about these new alternate proteins. Do they meet the need for higher quality foods? Will they help address global food shortages?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Consumer interest in replacing meats with alternative proteins is growing steadily. Because of this, many companies are introducing new protein-rich ingredients. As well, most fast-food chains now offer alternative protein menu items to their customers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"black-bean-vegetarian-burger\"<\/p>\n

What is Alternative Protein?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Alternative proteins are foods that replace conventional animal protein sources like meat, fish, and shellfish. These protein alternatives include plant sources <\/span>such as soy and pea, hemp seed, and ancient grains such as quinoa. They also include emerging products such as insect-based proteins. Recent alternative protein innovations mimic animal-based foods, including eggs, dairy, and different types of meat traditionally. <\/span>Substituting conventional animal products with alternative proteins is considered to reduce animal exploitation and curb the environmental impact of food production.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three primary factors that have led to the increase in alternative protein consumption are:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Concerns about animal welfare<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Increased awareness of the environmental impact\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Changing taste preferences<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    \"protein-alternatives-vegan\"<\/p>\n

    Why Choose Alternative Proteins?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    There are a number of reasons to switch to alternative proteins, including health interests, availability, animal welfare considerations<\/a>, and religious beliefs. For example:<\/span><\/p>\n

    Health Concerns<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Over the last few years, interests in alternative protein sources have grown rapidly amongst health-conscious people. <\/span>Plant-based protein alternatives are becoming increasingly popular due to meat products’ perceived negative health impact.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Availability<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    The scarcity of meat resources in countries across the globe has motivated many to look for alternative proteins.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Religious Beliefs<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    Several religions have strong beliefs surrounding foods.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Protein alternatives are often plant-based. Many consider them healthier than traditional meat offerings. However, this leads to questions about these options’ nutritional value. How do alternative proteins measure up?<\/span><\/p>\n

    \"soy-cousine-variety-products\"<\/p>\n

    1. Plant-Based Alternative Protein<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Plant-based proteins are popular due to their cost-effectiveness and perceived health benefits. These protein alternatives come in several variations, including burgers, ‘chicken’ nuggets, and ‘ground meat.’ Nutrition-wise, these plant-based protein sources offer fairly positive health benefits. They are also much easier on the planet.<\/span><\/p>\n

    The following healthful, plant-based foods have a high-protein content per serving:<\/span><\/p>\n

    Tofu<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    The wealthiest plant-based alternative protein sources are soy products. The protein content varies depending on how you prepare the soy.:<\/span><\/p>\n