THE RISE OF PLANT-BASED MEAT ALTERNATIVES Rethinking What's on Our Plate

Not long ago, ordering a "meatless burger" meant getting a soggy patty made of lentils or mashed vegetables.

- By Niharika Sachdeva

Today, things have changed dramatically. Thanks to advances in food technology and changing consumer values, plantbased meat alternatives are becoming mainstream. From fast-food chains to high-end restaurants, "meat without meat" is being embraced across the globe-and India is no exception.

This shift isn't just about food. It's tied to bigger questions about health, sustainability, animal welfare, and how we feed a growing global population. As more people rethink what's on their plate, the rise of plant-based meat could mark a major turning point in the future of food.

WHAT ARE PLANT-BASED MEATS?

Plant-based meats are food products designed to look, taste, and cook like animal meat-but made entirely from plants. They often use ingredients like soy, peas, chickpeas, jackfruit, wheat, or mushrooms to create the texture and protein content of real meat.

Unlike traditional vegetarian dishes, these products are designed for people who enjoy the taste of meat but want an alternative that's better for their health or the planet. Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods in the West, or Blue Tribe, GoodDot, and Imagine Meats in India, have launched products like plant-based burgers, sausages, kebabs, and nuggets that closely mimic real meat in flavor and appearance.

WHY ARE PLANT-BASED MEATS BECOMING POPULAR?

Several factors are driving the growing interest in plant-based meat:

1. Health Consciousness

Many people are turning away from red meat and processed meats due to health concerns such as heart disease, obesity, and cancer. Plant-based meats offer a way to reduce meat intake while still enjoying similar textures and flavors. These alternatives are usually cholesterol-free, lower in saturated fats, and high in plant protein.