Most vegetarians don’t give up meat because they don’t like the taste of it, it’s the ethics behind what they’re eating and the environmental effects of animal agriculture that steer most to eating plant based. As much as I love an aubergine and chickpea curry or a vegetable stir fry, sometimes it’s nice to keep things simple – crispy vegan sausages and creamy mashed potatoes come to mind. Vegan food has come such a long way in the last 10 years, and there are now so many incredible plant-based foods out there to try. I’ve curated my list of top animal-free meat brands that your taste buds and your conscience will devour.
Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat is in my opinion serving up the best vegan burgers and sausages in town. Cooked well these can be enjoyed by even the fussiest of meat-lovers. Beyond Meat was first on the scene when I was living out in Los Angeles, and I’m pretty sure I was a primary investor in the early days serving these up by the dozens each weekend at (veggie) BBQ’s. My love for them hasn’t gone, and I’m delighted we can now buy them in the UK too. Another benefit of Beyond Meat is most of their products are soy free.
Beyond Meats vegan range includes:
Sausages
Beef burgers
Ground Beef
Chicken Tenders
Where to shop?
Find out here: https://www.beyondmeat.com/where-to-find?&search=true
The Vegetarian Butcher
The Vegetarian Butcher says “We don’t use the words meat substitute, but rather, meat successors. Get a taste for the future of meat.” and I couldn’t agree more. To save the human species we need to stop killing the animal kind. One of the best ways we can show our commitment to the future of this planet is to stop putting your money with industries that are killing it, and start supporting smaller businesses that are creating food for change. The Vegetarian Butcher fits in the latter category, and is very much worth the purchase.
The Vegetarian Butcher’s range includes:
Sausages
Meatballs
Chicken Pieces
Mince
Chicken Style Nuggets
Hot Dog
Burgers
Where to shop?
Find out here: https://www.thevegetarianbutcher.co.uk/store-finder.html
THIS™
THIS™ caught my attention with their vegan bacon, the packaging allowing a glimpse of the product looking deceptively like the real thing. The moment I could make a genuinely delicious carbonara, I was sold. THIS’ years of hard work allow, as the company states “ “to virtually eat meat, without killing stuff” and all products are even fortified with vitamin B12 and iron, to ward off any nutrient FOMO.
THIS™ range includes:
Sausages
Bacon
Stuffing
Chicken
Chicken Nuggets
Where to shop?
Find out here: https://this.co/stockists-map/