Healthy Eats: The Deets on Mock Meats

Each month, I write for HealthyEats.com alongside other fabulous dietitians. This month, my topic was mock meats like tofu pups, ground crumbles, chick-un. Wondering if you should eat these meats? Read on for a preview of my post and visit my post "The Deets on Mock Meats" for more.

There’s no missing the umpteen faux meat products at the supermarket. Ground “beef,” tofu hot dogs, veggie burgers and “chick-un” — you name it and a veg-friendly “meat” option exists. Here’s what I think of some of these substitutes and a few words of warning.

How Much Is Too Much?

First things first, packaged mock meats shouldn’t be your everyday vegetarian choice. Sure, they add texture, provide cholesterol-free protein and can help recreate a meaty main, but look at the ingredients list. You probably won’t be able to pronounce half the words on that huge list. Turn to these packaged substitutes only when you really want some beans and franks, a deli sandwich or need a quick fix — that is, a couple times a week or less. You can get the same protein fix and meaty bite from beans, tofu, nuts, seeds, whole grains, mushrooms and more.