Is Beyond Burger Plant-based Patties Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is truly vegan, we must look beyond the marketing claims and examine the source of each component. The Beyond Burger relies on a blend of protein sources to mimic the texture and mouthfeel of beef. The primary protein comes from Yellow Pea Protein, a legume-based ingredient that provides the structural 'meatiness' without any animal involvement.

To bind the patty together, the formula uses Methylcellulose. This is a common plant-derived thickener and binder used in many vegan meat alternatives. It is synthesized from cellulose (plant fiber) and is crucial for keeping the burger juicy while cooking. For fat content, which is essential for flavor, the product utilizes Avocado Oil. This is a high-quality plant fat that replaces the saturated fat found in animal meat.

Flavor is achieved through a combination of Natural Flavors, Apple Extract, and Pomegranate Concentrate. While the term 'Natural Flavors' can sometimes be ambiguous, in the context of Beyond Meat products, they are certified vegan and derived from vegetable sources to replicate the savory notes of cooking meat. Finally, color is provided by Vegetable Juice Color (with Beet), ensuring the patty looks pink and appetizing without the need for artificial dyes or animal-based coloring agents like cochineal.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, the Beyond Burger offers a distinct profile compared to traditional beef. A standard serving contains approximately 230 calories, which is relatively moderate for a burger patty. However, it is important to note that the fat content is significant, primarily due to the Avocado Oil. While this is a heart-healthy unsaturated fat, the total fat (14g) is comparable to an 80/20 beef patty.

Regarding carbohydrates and sugar, the patty is low in sugar, containing less than 1 gram per serving. The carbohydrates present come from Brown Rice and Potato Starch, which act as fillers and binders. This makes the product relatively low-carb friendly, though not strictly keto due to the starch content. It fits well into a balanced diet looking to reduce meat consumption, but those strictly monitoring sodium intake should be aware that it contains Potassium Salt and added sea salt, bringing the sodium content to roughly 370mg per patty.