My 5 thoughts on the McPlant

by | Nov 10, 2020

I was called today by BBC Radio for my views on the plant-based burger, the McPlant, which is due to be offered at McDonald’s restaurants in the near future. “It’s made with a juicy, plant-based patty and served on a warm, sesame seed bun with all the classic toppings”. Here’s what I think…

  1. People who are looking for a plant-based option for convenience can now choose something that meets that need. So, it’s fine on occasions as an on-the-go fast food.
  2. One of the benefits of a plant-based diet is that these foods are typically higher in fibre than meat-based alternatives – that’s a good thing.
  3. It would be better if we were to eat more WHOLE plant-based foods such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables.
  4. In my research for the Vegan Savvy book, I found than vegan convenience foods didn’t necessarily compare favourably to meat-based versions. Many were just as high in salt and some were rich in unhealthy saturated fats from coconut oil.
  5. I’d be keen to see the full nutritional composition, especially in terms of fibre, micronutrients like vitamin B12 and iron (which are found in red meat), salt, saturated fat and calories.

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