As more Americans experiment with plant-based diets and veer away from eating animal products, vegan protein sources, as well as vegetarian friendly options, are becoming increasingly popular.
A 2023 survey from International Food Information Council found that more than one-quarter of respondents are eating more protein from whole-plant sources than they did in the previous year. Plant-based protein sources can include meat substitutes, like those made by Beyond Meat, or it can mean veggies that are packed with protein, like black beans or mushrooms.
You don’t need to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet to get some of the benefits of eating mostly plant-based foods. In fact, “for most people, choosing plant protein doesn’t mean giving up animal protein — they’re eating both,” Ali Webster, Ph.D., dietitian and former director of research and nutrition communications at the IFIC, previously told TODAY.com.
If you’re curious about the plant-based protein trend or just want to add some new foods to your meal plan, here are some pointers — plus nine plant-based protein options, both whole and ready-made foods, to check out.
Should you try vegan protein sources?
The short answer is yes! Including more vegan (plant-based) protein in place of animal proteins can help lower the saturated fat in your diet, add more fiber and nutrients to your plate, and may help lower the risk of various health concerns. And, of course, swapping some of your animal foods for plant foods is a good way to reduce your environmental impact.
There are many of high-protein foods that are vegan or vegetarian, so upping your plant intake should be easy! Try adding one of these whole plant-based proteins to your next meal:
Hemp seeds
These super seeds contain 10 grams of protein in a 3-tablespoon serving. Hemp hearts are shelled seeds and are ready to eat straight out of the bag. Since they’re are about the size of rice grains, they’re not ideal for snacking. Instead, they’re easy…
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