The Plant-Based Revolution In India
Unleash the Power of Plant-Based Living!
MOSAIC ditches the dull dinner table debates about vegetarianism versus meat cravings simply because a brighter, more sustainable future is upon us that gives us a better exchange of ideas. It’s a future where humanity thrives on consciously curated, ethically grown, and hygienically packaged products. The plant-based diet isn’t a novel concept, and now it’s not just for the elite; even middle-class households are diving into this trend, igniting a recent surge in the food market. Brace yourself, as we predict that India’s plant-based sector’s export market will skyrocket by 2030, with the global vegan food industry expected to grow at an impressive 11.32% compound annual rate between 2022 and 2027. What better news is that numerous startups have joined the plant-based food revolution in India alone, offering alternatives to meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, and even vegan meals for our furry friends. Some standout names in India’s plant-based meat scene, gaining international recognition, include Blue Tribe Foods, Imagine Meats, Beyond Meat, Tata Consumer Products, Greenest, and more.
Is this a fad-like phenomenon soon to become sloth-like adjustments in our nutritional routines? Like keto diets and intermittent fasting, this too will have mixed debates. Is India and the Western world ready to embrace the plant-based lifestyle for the long term? According to GFI India’s research, the most significant demand for plant-based foods comes from the 25-44 age group. These individuals are more inclined to make plant-based meat a regular diet. This sector poises for exponential growth with the growing enthusiasm for plant-based diets. Vegan and meatless diets offer delicious, cost-effective, and nutritionally rich alternatives like legumes, grains, nuts, soya, and tofu. Beyond taste, they help combat the rising greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. Try meatless recipes like soya chaap, sabz biryani, soya badi, and vegetarian mutton for a healthier lifestyle, increased muscle strength, and weight loss.
In a world with diseases like bird flu, swine flu, and COVID-19, non-veg replacements offer safety and promote better heart health. The plant-based foods make for a better case for a certain psychography. There is an assortment of plant-based foods, and not all want to be advocates, strategically focusing on the already existing segment – the ones that don’t eat meat. While we explore the non-meat food category, it is good also to understand that a lot of meat eaters continue to stay but want to eat meat responsibly, which means a small number for now, but growing positively, who want to source their meat where animals are reared healthily, and not tortured. Or buy from organic poultry farms only and avoid certain meat companies that are ignorant of the needs of animals or the environment.
Global citizens now know that raising livestock wreaks havoc on our planet, causing deforestation and excessive water consumption. According to a recent study by UNEP, producing a pound of beef consumes a staggering 2,400 gallons of water. For those seeking an ecologically conscious and healthier lifestyle, mock meat offers a guilt-free way to satisfy cravings for chewy delicacies without harming the planet or its animals.
So, what’s the buzz around mock meat? Mock meat is a game-changer created from plant-based proteins that mimic real meat’s taste, colour, and texture. Ingredients like soybean, wheat protein, tempeh, and pea protein are processed into kebabs and other meaty delights using fungi-like yeast, achieving the desired texture, taste, and colour. But the next vital question is, “Is mock meat healthy?”
Amidst the hula balo, there is also a segment alerting us on the other side of the mock-meat production claiming unhealthy manufacturing or side effects of overconsumption; it would be good for consumers to know where they source and how much they can consume this food. There are nutritionists with broad knowledge; one can refer them for brands and incorporate mock meat into specific diet plans.
While elsewhere, social media is bursting with influencers advocating for meatless diets. One such influencer is Sheil Shukla, an internal medicine resident physician, artist, and chef. He’s passionate about plant-based nutrition and its applications in clinical medicine. His love for Indian and South-East Asian cuisines shines through his content. You may follow him on Instagram @PLANTBASEDARTIST for some plant-based inspirations. He also published the cookbook “Plant-Based India: Nourishing recipes rooted in tradition.” This treasure trove boasts over 100 stunning plant-based recipes and health tips. It’s a testament to the belief that “food is the best medicine.” Whether vegan or a curious non-vegetarian, this cookbook will dazzle your taste buds. Dr. Sheil Shukla’s medical background adds another layer, explaining the health benefits of vegan eating. Dive into recipes like Bharela Peppers, Dal dhokli, Sabudana Khichdi, and Rotli, inspired by Indian tradition. Sheil Shukla isn’t alone in this mission; influencers like Andrea Hannemann, Laura Wright, Radhi Devlukia Shetty, Aakash Ranison, and many more drive the vegan and healthy eating revolution through their social media platforms.
In conclusion, this article aims to inspire, not promote, any particular product or food industry. We urge you to re-imagine your lifestyle that doesn’t harm others or our planet. A plant-based revolution isn’t a one-day affair; it’s a long-term journey that demands patience and consistency. Whether with responsible meat consumption or a plant-based or vegan approach, we can take the first step towards a greener, healthier Earth.
Based on the research claims produced by some health forums and experts, we explore seven benefits of this food phenomenon:
- Mock meat helps create hormonal balance and reduces the risk of heart attacks.
- It fights against coronary heart disease.
- Consuming soya protein keeps your heart healthy, even as you age.
- It can delay menopause in women, managing menopausal symptoms.
- Plant-based meat is rich in phytoestrogens, high in fibre, lactose-free, an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, and packed with necessary nutrients.
- It enhances cognitive function in children and older individuals.
- It can even combat breast cancer