Plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) are increasing in popularity, especially among younger and health-conscious consumers who want to replace animal meat in their diet. A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology determines the cardioprotective effect of PBMAs in Canadians. Study: Animal vs plant-based meat: a hearty debate .
Image Credit: Natalia Sem / Shuttersotck.com PBMAs are highly processed foods used as meat substitutes. They appear, taste, and feel like animal meat but are synthesized using plant-based proteins like wheat, soy, pea, and fungal.
Over six million Canadians ate little or no meat in 2018, whereas about 25% of Canadians in a 2020 survey considered reducing their food intake. The reduction in animal meat consumption for ethical, environmental, or nutritional reasons has increased PBMA consumption. PBMAs generally have a lower mean energy density, total fat, saturated fat, and protein, as well as higher fiber content, than meat.
PBMAs provide most micronutrients found in meat products while also offering a healthier nutritional profile compared to most animal meat products. Nevertheless, PBMAs also have a higher sodium content, which could increase blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Since PBMAs are produced from extracts of whole foods or are synthesized in a laboratory, they are also considered ultra-processed foods.
In general, ultra-processed food consumption is associated with an increased risk of total mo.
