For years, meat snacks have held a beloved place in our snack rotations, offering protein-packed sustenance and savory satisfaction. Whether it's beef jerky on a hike or sausage at a backyard barbecue, they have been a go-to for their convenience and flavor.
However, the tides are turning. People are becoming more aware of climate change and the environmental impact of their decisions, and they’re also focusing more on their health. As a result, they are seeking alternatives that align more with their values.
Enter plant-based snacks—a delicious and nutritious alternative gaining traction in kitchens and snack aisles worldwide. Aside from being a sustainable choice that reduces our carbon footprint, they also provide a wealth of health benefits.
Let's explore why plant-based snacks are not just a trend but a smart choice for a sustainable and satisfying snacking experience.
Benefits of Plant-Based Snacks
High in Protein
Protein is an essential macronutrient made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks for tissues, muscles, enzymes, and hormones in our bodies. It’s in charge of repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass.
Quality plant-based snacks effectively harness the power of protein by providing a significant protein punch without the saturated fats and cholesterol found in many animal-based options.
When crafted with the right ingredients like legumes, nuts, and seeds, these snacks can deliver upwards of 45% protein content, keeping you full longer and contributing to a balanced diet.
Soy-Free
Opting for soy-free plant-based snacks makes all the difference for those with soy allergies or preferences. Soy is a common allergen and can cause adverse reactions ranging from mild discomfort to more severe symptoms like:
- Digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhea
- Skin reactions like hives or itching
- Respiratory problems, including wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Headaches or migraines
- Anaphylaxis in severe cases
Additionally, some people choose to avoid soy due to its potential effects on hormone levels, particularly in relation to estrogen.
By selecting soy-free options, individuals can enjoy nutritious, allergen-friendly snacks that cater to their dietary needs without compromising taste or health benefits.
Gluten-Free
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that gives elasticity to dough and helps it rise and maintain its shape. While harmless for most people, gluten can cause severe health issues for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten triggers an immune response, damaging the lining of the small intestine over time. If untreated, this issue can lead to nutrient deficiencies, digestive problems, fatigue, and other serious complications.
Some people also have non-celiac gluten sensitivity and experience similar symptoms but without the autoimmune response. Symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
Choosing gluten-free plant-based snacks ensures everyone has delicious and nutritious options available without triggering adverse reactions. Snacks made from gluten-free ingredients cater to different dietary restrictions and provide a variety of flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy.
No Trans Fats
Contrary to popular belief, our body needs fats for energy and to support vital functions like hormone production, cell membrane maintenance, and nutrient absorption.
However, trans fats are artificial fats created during food processing and are notorious for their harmful effects on health. They raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower good cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Plant-based snacks take a healthier approach by steering clear of trans fats. Instead, they offer beneficial fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in ingredients such as peas, nuts, and seeds. These fats actually help improve heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and supporting cardiovascular well-being.
Source of Iron
Iron transports oxygen throughout the bloodstream, supports energy production, and aids in synthesizing hormones and neurotransmitters. Without enough iron, you may feel fatigued, have difficulty concentrating, or experience decreased immune function.
The recommended daily intake of iron for adults is 18mg for women and 8mg for men. Plant-based snacks offer a natural and enjoyable way to incorporate iron into your diet.
Ingredients such as lentils, beans, and fortified grains are rich sources of non-heme iron—the type found in plant-based snacks. Pairing these snacks with vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits or bell peppers, can enhance iron absorption.
Sustainable
Livestock production and meat consumption have a major environmental footprint, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water scarcity.
Methane emitted by livestock and the land used for grazing and feed production are some of the main drivers of climate change. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere and intensifies global warming.
Clearing forests and grasslands for livestock production reduces carbon-absorbing vegetation and disrupts natural ecosystems, further exacerbating environmental impacts. Moreover, intensive farming practices can degrade soil quality and pollute waterways, posing threats to biodiversity.
Plant-based snacks offer a sustainable solution by reducing our dependence on animal agriculture. Opting for snacks made from plants requires less land, water, and energy compared to raising livestock. For instance, producing 1kg of New Zealand beef generates about 15 times more greenhouse gas emissions than producing 1kg of legumes.
In other words, choosing plant-based snacks supports environmentally friendly practices that conserve natural resources and reduce carbon footprints.
Vegan-Friendly
If you’re fully committed to a vegan lifestyle or just want to explore other options, plant-based snacks offer a guilt-free indulgence. They align with vegan principles by avoiding all animal products, including dairy, eggs, and honey while giving you a diverse range of flavors and textures from natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains.
Choosing vegan-friendly snacks supports ethical choices and promotes personal health and environmental sustainability. Whether you're snacking at home, at work, or on the go, they make it easier to enjoy delicious treats while staying true to your values.
Get Top-Quality, Plant-Based Snacks at Off-Piste Provisions
Ready to explore the world of plant-based snacking? Discover countless innovative plant-based snacks, from jerky to crackling and more, at Off-Piste Provisions.
As a leading plant-based meat company from Aotearoa, New Zealand, we offer snacks packed with 100% plants, 45% protein, and 0% additives and preservatives. Shop now or contact us to create a more optimistic future where snacks are smart, sustainable, and simply delicious.
