Soy Meat Is Soy Yesterday

5 new and better options for meatless burgers, fishless seafood, and more

By Katie O'Reilly

December 15, 2017

Beyond Burgers

Photo by Lori Eanes

Vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians are no longer satisfied with the soy-reliant faux meat of yesterday. Soybeans are almost always genetically modified, and they also contain phytoestrogens, which may increase the risk of some cancers. The good news? Plant-based-food producers have achieved the Holy Grail: savory burgers, deli slices, barbecue, and even imitation seafood made from fruits, veggies, and other legumes.

Beyond Burgers

BEYOND MEAT has made waves in the vegan community ever since Beyond Burgers—crafted with pea protein, beets, coconut oil, and potato starch—started showing up alongside beef in the meat aisle. Packed with 20 grams of protein and free from GMOs, soy, and cholesterol, these burgers don't just look and taste like meat—they literally bleed beet juice. The quarter-pound patties are available in most major grocery stores and are gradually upping the ante on meatlessness at burger chains across the country. $6 for two patties, beyondmeat.com

Jackfruit

Jackfruit trees yield nutrient-dense fruit with a meaty texture. UPTON'S NATURALS supplies heat-and-serve varieties in flavors like Bar-B-Que and Sriracha. $5 per box, uptonsnaturals.com 

vegan shrimp

Something's fishy in the vegan aisle—SOPHIE'S KITCHEN makes soy- and wheat-free shrimp alternatives from pea protein and konjac, a.k.a. elephant yam. $5 a package, sophieskitchen.com

vegan deli slices

Unlike imitation turkey and ham, LIGHTLIFE deli slices are reminiscent of hummus and make for yummy, filling sandwiches. About $3.50 for a package of 12 slices, lightlife.com 

veggie burgers

With a mission to preserve veggies' flavors, hues, and nutrients, MAIKA FOODS offers vibrant burgers made from carrots, green peas, and beets. $5 for four patties, maikafoods.com

 

This article appeared in the January/February 2018 edition with the headline "Soy Long, Farewell."