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Plant-based food innovations

Plant-based burgers and nuggets on plates.

According to Statista, 50 to 72% of Canadians say that it’s a positive choice to eat more plant-based foods. Food companies are listening. At this year’s Restaurants Canada show in Toronto, plant-based food innovations were indeed THE biggest trend.

Here are a few of the plant-based foods I spotted at the show.

Ecoideas – Plant-based Chunks

A package of fava and pea protein plant-based chunksThese dried chunks are vegan, gluten-free and made from organic fava and pea protein concentrate. After soaking the chunks in hot water, they’re ready to use in recipes. The company also produces plant-based crumble and jackfruit cubes/shreds.

Nutrition info for 3/4 cup serving: 130 calories, 1.5 g fat, 11 g carbohydrates, 5 g fibre, 1 g sugars, 19 g protein,  0 mg cholesterol, 180 mg sodium, 15% DV potassium, 4% DV calcium, 19% DV iron (DV= Daily Value).

 

PLANT UP – Plant-based Shawarma Bites

A package of plant based shawarma bitesMade from soy protein and chickpeas, these little bite snacks pack in a blend of Middle Eastern flavourings. The company partnered with chefs around the world to create a range of products including plant-based Asian dumplings, Thai Basil Chik’n, and Butter Chik’n Bites.

Nutrition info for 7 plant-based Shawarma bites: 150 calories, 7 g fat, 24 g carbohydrates, 2 g fibre, 3 g sugars, 8 g protein, 0 mg cholesterol, 420 mg sodium, 1% DV potassium, 2% DV calcium, 19% DV iron (DV = Daily Value).

 

Plantropy – Jackfruit Pepperoni

A package of jackfruit pepperoni

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit with a meat-like texture. It’s a common ingredient used in plant-based alternatives to meat. Pea protein is added to boost the protein content. The company also offers jackfruit dumplings, nuggets, kebabs and pulled jackfruit.

Nutrition info for 20 pepperoni slices: 180 calories, 14 g fat, 9 g carbohydrates, 2 g fibre, 6 g sugars, 5 g protein, 0 mg cholesterol, 430 mg sodium, 7% DV potassium, 3% DV calcium, 17% DV iron (DV= Daily Value).

 

Woop 4 – Plant-based Fish

A package of plant-based mahi mahi fish

Made from rice protein, canola oil, flaxseed oil and konjac, this fish alternative requires no cooking. Sweet potato and carrot powder are added to mimic the colour of fish. The product is marked as allergy-free and can be used in sushi, sashimi and poke dishes.

Nutrition info for 125 g serving: 120 calories, 9 g fat, 4 g carbohydrates, 0 g fibre, 1 g sugars, 5 g protein, 0 mg cholesterol, 180 mg sodium, 1% DV potassium, 10% DV calcium, 7% DV iron (DV= Daily Value).

 

Are you interested in eating plant-based foods? Would you try these products? Let me know in the comments.

This information is for educational purposes only. This is not a sponsored post and not intended to be an endorsement of these products.

 

 

Nutrition tip of the month: Get enough protein at breakfast

A plate with two eggs and saladAre you getting enough protein at breakfast?

Many of us are not. Aim for 20-30 grams of protein at this meal. Not only will this help you feel full throughout the morning, but it will also play a role in maintaining your muscle mass.

Here are 6 protein-packed breakfast ideas.

1. Eggs – Start with 2 large eggs. Whip up some scrambled eggs or an omelet with veggies. Top with about 1/4 cup grated cheese. Pair with a salad (yes, salad for breakfast!) or roll it up in a whole wheat tortilla. 20 grams of protein.

2. Greek Yogurt Bowl – Make your favourite smoothie bowl with 3/4 to 1 cup of Greek yogurt. Sprinkle on a small handful of nuts / granola and your favourite fruit. Easy! 20-30 grams of protein.

3. Grilled Cheese and Ham Sandwich – All you need are 2 slices of whole grain bread + 2 slices of cheese + 2 slices of ham or other lean meat. Done! 20-30 grams of protein.

4. Protein Smoothie – Make your favourite smoothie with high protein milk and / or add a scoop or more of protein powder. Read the nutrition information on the protein powder since they can range from 6 to 30 grams of protein per scoop.

5. Protein Pancakes – Check out your grocery store or online for protein pancake mix.  Team it up with a small glass of fortified soy beverage or milk. 20-30 grams of protein.

6. Creamy Oatmeal – Make a bowl of hot oatmeal with fortified soy beverage or milk instead of water. Stir in a tablespoon of nut butter and top with 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds, hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds. 20 grams of protein.

What’s your favourite protein-packed breakfast? Let me know in the comments.

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