How plant-based meat is made to taste like animal products

Animal meat is not the only way to get protein – plants have protein too!

Plants can even be used to make food that seems like animal meat, such as meatballs, nuggets and sausages.

The food company Beyond Meat makes plant-based burgers from peas, mung beans and rice. When you take a bite, these burgers “bleed” because of the red beetroot juice inside.

These different types of plant-based meats look, feel and taste like real animal meat because they are made with special recipes (see graphic).

Some companies are even growing “meat” using stem cells taken from cows or chickens. Then, scientists use a 3D-printer to “draw” layers of the meat to give it a more realistic texture. Some people might avoid these products because it is not completely free of animals. Others see it as a way to eat meat while sparing the lives of our furry friends.