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  4. 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian
  • 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 1
  • 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 2
  • 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 3
  • 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 4
  • 10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 5

10 Best Meat Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

Meat alternatives are either plant-based or dairy-based substitutes for meat. They are processed to imitate the taste, texture, and smell of cooked meat. With all the health issues happening around us, many have decided to live a healthier lifestyle. Some enrolled in fitness classes while others modified their food intake. Some became vegans or follow dietary restrictions due to health, environmental, and ethical reasons. 


However, who can resist burgers, barbecues, and steaks? Great news! Meat alternatives are here to satisfy our cravings. In this article, allow us to help you choose the best meat alternatives that you can buy online - we even asked a Nutritionist-Dietitian, Jo Sebastian, to give her comments, tips, and answer some of the most asked questions on the web.

Last updated 07/14/2023
Jo Sebastian
Expert
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Jo Sebastian is a Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian who graduated BS Community Nutrition from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. Throughout the past year she has worked with Uniqlo, Adidas, Rebel Fitness app, and more to make nutrition fun, easy and accessible. She believes that life is not about restricting food but through simple lifestyle and dietary changes to attain our optimal health we can reach our full potential.

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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose the Best Meat Alternatives - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Identify the source of the meat substitutes.
  2. Check the ingredients for dietary restrictions and allergens.
  3. Be mindful of the expiration date and net weight.
  4. Consider ready-to-cook servings for more convenience.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Identify the Source of the Meat Substitutes

Meat and protein are sourced from vegetation, wild forests, and milk-producing animals. Let's take time to know them more, so you can start thinking of delectable dishes you can make out of them.

Dairy-Based for Those With Lactose Tolerant Tummies

Dairy-Based for Those With Lactose Tolerant Tummies

Dairy products like cheese can be a meat substitute. A great example of dairy-based meat is the sausage from Wales called Glamorgan sausage. Welsh people make them from the combination of cheese, leak, and breadcrumbs. 


In our local version, the closest that we have now are the cheese sticks to replace the classic meat-based lumpiang shanghai during parties. However, cheese sticks are better eaten as merienda and are not paired with rice. Go for the dairy-based meat substitute if you are allowed to eat animal products such as milk

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Dairy protein from animals is similar to that of meat because they both offer complete proteins (meaning they support growth and sustain life). The servings for cheese are different for servings of meat if you want to get the same amount of protein.


Another source of protein from dairy is whey protein or casein protein powder. Popular among athletes and active individuals, protein powder, can be a convenient way to get your protein intake.

Mushrooms Are a Great Alternative to Chicken

Mushrooms Are a Great Alternative to Chicken

Mushrooms can imitate cooked meat very well. A mushroom called chicken-of-the-wood has a texture and taste that are comparable to chicken. We also have mushroom chicharon that you can munch on in-between mealtime.


While the protein content may not be enough to be considered a protein substitute, they do contain fiber and a variety of nutrients such as magnesium and selenium. What's more, it has that coveted umami flavor that makes for a very satisfying meal. Get a mushroom-based meat alternative if you want to experience the taste and texture of meat as close as possible.


Another fantastic fungi alternative is the wild truffles. They have this nutty aroma and meaty flavor. However, the best ones are out in the forests- hence, very rare. Good thing, some manufacturers are trying to culture truffles; others use its extract and mix it with mushrooms or other meat substitutes for flavor.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Mushrooms provide a lot of fiber and antioxidants that keep you regular and decrease the risk of diseases. However, mushrooms don’t offer the same amount or kind of protein that meat does. Make sure to consume them along with another plant-based source of protein to complement the amino acids and to get enough protein.

Fruit-Based Meat Alternatives for Better Digestion

Fruit-Based Meat Alternatives for Better Digestion

Jackfruits and grapefruits are some of the popular fruit-based meat alternatives on the market. Also included in this category are eggplants, which are considered as fruit, contrary to a popular belief that it is a vegetable. 


Fruits are very nutritious and contain many healthy components such as dietary fibers for better digestion. This meat alternative also helps flush out bad cholesterol. 


A Moroccan dish called bistec de toronja or grapefruit steak is a dish using the peal and frying it with batter. Locally, we have our well-loved tortang talong, which is very tasty even without ground meat. There are plenty of available fruit-based meat alternatives out there, and make sure to check them out.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Jackfruit is versatile in texture and the amount of flavor it can absorb. However, it does not offer the same amount of protein as meat. It is important to pair it with a higher protein plant-based source, like soy, TVP, or seitan. Other sample dishes you can make with jackfruit are burgers, ginataang langka, and more!

Soy Meat if You Want to Add Your Own Flavors to the Dish

Soy Meat if You Want to Add Your Own Flavors to the Dish

Tofu and soy are popular meat substitutes in the Asian region. They are the most common meat-alternatives as they act as a blank slate for you to add flavors and spices. For example, as an alternative to pork, sizzling spicy tofu sisig is a favorite among Filipinos, whether as a main dish or as pulutan.

Add some barbecue marinade to your tofu and sauté them in the pan, then add some veggies for color for a quick and easy meal. They are widely available in groceries and online stores, moreover, they are affordable and delicious. If you are new to following dietary restrictions, check out this legume-based meat.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Tofu as silken tofu or firm tofu or even in the form of fermented soybeans known as tempeh is great to get your protein in! They are also great for reducing your cholesterol levels. Contrary to popular belief, tofu does not increase your estrogen levels and is safe for those with PCOS and breast cancer. It is definitely safe to consume tofu regularly!

Beans, Legumes, and Other Vegetables May Help With Weight Loss

Beans, Legumes, and Other Vegetables May Help With Weight Loss

Beans and legumes like chickpeas and mung beans are frequently used in falafel or burgers. Vegetarians also use them as texturized vegetable protein (TVP), which is a great alternative for ground beef. You can buy them canned or fresh. Either way, beans are a delicious way to step up your menu. They are rich sources of fiber, protein, iron, and vitamins B1, B6, E, and K, among others


Another plus is that beans and legumes may help people who are trying to lose weight. Due to their high fiber and protein content, they can leave you feeling full longer. You'll end up eating less without sacrificing nutrition!

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Beans and legumes are often high carbs, high protein, high fiber, and high iron. The important thing to remember when consuming beans and legumes is that you must soak them 8-12 hours and cook them well. Beans and legumes contain phytate that tends to inhibit nutrient absorption. To decrease cook time and phytate availability, soaking and cooking are important steps.


FUN FACT: TVP has about 48g of protein per cup!

2

Check the Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions and Allergens

Dietary restrictions are often applied out of religious practices, health reasons, or merely a personal choice. So make sure that you carefully go over the ingredients list of the product - whether by checking the product description or the packaging itself. You can also ask the seller if the ingredients are not shown on the website.

Food Choices Based on Religious Practices

Food Choices Based on Religious Practices

Some religious practices apply specific guidelines when it comes to food choices. The most common of which is removing pork from their diet. As an alternative, Muslims opt for Halal-certified food products, while the Jewish have Kosher-compliant meat substitutes. Meanwhile, most devout Roman Catholics abstain from eating meats during the Lenten season.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

There are many reasons besides health that one would choose to consume other sources of protein. There are religious, environmental, and also ethical reasons. All reasons are valid, and it’s important to maintain a balanced diet even with removing certain sources.

Take Note of Food Allergies

Take Note of Food Allergies

As a general rule, dairy and other animal products like milk and eggs are allowed in a vegetarian diet but not in a vegan diet. However, you must also take note that some products may contain allergens too! Allergies in plant-based foods like tofu are rare but still can cause swelling and difficulty in breathing


Animal milk is a no-no for the lactose-intolerant as it can cause an upset stomach and nausea. To be safe, always make sure to consult a doctor before consuming such products to prevent complications.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Soy, milk, eggs, and nuts are some of the "big eight" allergens. These are often ingredients in meat alternatives found in the market. Be sure to check the ingredient list, as you can find these in your meat alternatives. Especially egg, as it is used as a binder.


Often you can find the labels vegan and vegetarian easily interchanged even though they have different dietary patterns, so check the label! It will always say contains if it will for sure have it, while may contain is listed if there is possible cross-contamination.

3

Be Mindful of the Expiration Date and Net Weight

Be Mindful of the Expiration Date and Net Weight

Prevention is always better than cure. Eating anything beyond the expiry date is risky because spoiled foods can cause harm. When purchasing, always ask the seller about the expiration date. You should have enough time allowance, taking into consideration the gap between the shipping and delivery period.


Meanwhile, the product's net weight determines the number of servings the meat alternatives can produce. You have to consider the number and appetite of your family or guests. It is also wise to buy in bundles to make them more cost-efficient, especially with the shipping fee.


Most online stores post the expiration date and the net weight. If not, ask them first via direct message and wait for their reply. Cliche as it may sound, but safety is better than sorry.

4

Consider Ready-to-Cook Servings for More Convenience

Consider Ready-to-Cook Servings for More Convenience

Lastly, some meat substitutes are already pre-marinated and seasoned, so all you need to do is fry, bake or reheat them. Such variants include breakfast staples such as tapa, tocino, nuggets, and sausage. On the other hand, you can also enjoy meatless versions of your favorite main dishes such as adobo, sinigang, menudo, and embutido, as well as snacks like siopao and burgers.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

While these options for your favorite Filipino breakfast foods are lower in saturated and trans fats as well as cholesterol make sure to check the sodium and added sugar on these and consume in moderation.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Meat Alternatives to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Swift

UnMeat Nuggets

Swift UnMeat Nuggets 1

₱120

Low Mid

Meatless Nuggets for Breakfast, Salads and Merienda

2

The Real Happy Cow PH

Sinigang Na 'Di Baka

The Real Happy Cow PH Sinigang Na 'Di Baka 1

₱295

High Mid

Prepare a Healthier Version of Sinigang

3

The Good Choices PH

TGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon

The Good Choices PH TGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon 1

₱370

High

Smoked Bacon Perfect for Non-Pork Eaters

4

Swift

UnMeat Hungarian Sausages

Swift UnMeat Hungarian Sausages 1

₱135

Mid

Guilt-Free Sausages for a Grill Party

5

Love Vegan PH

Dried Soybean Curd

Love Vegan PH Dried Soybean Curd 1

₱199

High Mid

Locally-Made Tofu Alternative for Meat Chicharon

6

San Miguel Foods

VEEGA Meat-Free Giniling

San Miguel Foods VEEGA Meat-Free Giniling 1

₱99

Low Mid

Plant-Based Giniling That's Free of Preservatives

7

San Miguel Foods

Veega Meat-Free Burger Patties

San Miguel Foods Veega Meat-Free Burger Patties 1

₱99

Low Mid

Uber-Healthy Burger Patties Made With Mushrooms

8

WTH Foods (Worth the Health)

J Poppers Jackfruit Nuggets

WTH Foods (Worth the Health) J Poppers  1

₱250

High Mid

Crispy Jackfruit Nuggets for a Healthy Snack

9

Foodgenics Philippines

Veggie Embutido5pcs Per Pack

Foodgenics Philippines Veggie Embutido 1

₱155

Mid

Mini-Fiesta Everyday With This No-Meat Embutido

10

Noemi's

Vegan Garlic Longanisa With Malunggay

Noemi's Vegan Garlic Longanisa With Malunggay 1

₱140

Mid

Classic Garlic Longganisa With Malunggay

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

SwiftUnMeat Nuggets

UnMeat Nuggets 1
Source:shopee.ph
UnMeat Nuggets 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱120
Low Mid
Reference price
₱120
Low Mid

Meatless Nuggets for Breakfast, Salads and Merienda

Crazy over nuggets but abstaining yourself from chicken? Get to enjoy the crunchy goodness of meatless nuggets without any guilt. The UnMeat Nuggets from Swift are 100% vegan-friendly because it is made of soy and has no eggs too. They are low in cholesterol and rich in protein & fiber. 

They are easy to prepare as well! You can pan-fry them in a healthy oil, or you can air-fry or bake them if you are also avoiding additional fats. Eat it with rice and your favorite dipping sauce or flavored powder. You can also chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them on a salad for extra texture and flavor. 


Kids and adults alike will surely love this healthy breakfast or merienda option as seen in its high star ratings and favorable product reviews from buyers. Keep in mind to keep it frozen or refrigerated if you're not going to consume it immediately. And if frozen, thaw it first before cooking.

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No.2

The Real Happy Cow PHSinigang Na 'Di Baka

Sinigang Na 'Di Baka 1
Source:instagram.com
Sinigang Na 'Di Baka 2
Source:instagram.com
Reference price
₱295
High Mid
Reference price
₱295
High Mid

Prepare a Healthier Version of Sinigang

Real Happy Cow PH has found a way so our favorite beef sinigang can be healthier and vegetarian-friendly. This product is a mixture of grainswheat, corn, soy protein, and several vegetable ingredients of sinigang, such as kangkong, okra, and string beans. They are a great source of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and good fats.


You can now cook this famous Filipino comfort food without worrying too much about your blood pressure or cholesterol level. It has a softer texture as compared to regular beef meat. This product is already seasoned with young tamarind, but you can add more to the soup if you want it to be asim-kilig!

No.3

The Good Choices PHTGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon

TGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon 1
Source:tgcph.store
TGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon 2
Source:instagram.com
TGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon 3
Source:tgcph.store
Reference price
₱370
High
Reference price
₱370
High

Smoked Bacon Perfect for Non-Pork Eaters

Enjoy the smoky flavor of this no-pork bacon from The Good Choices PH. It's the perfect alternative if you've been craving some crispy bacon- but you are on a strict diet or perhaps observing meat fasting due to the Lenten season. It is made with soy protein and tapioca starch with smoked paprika to taste like real the deal.

Despite the meaty taste, it has no trace of meat even in seasonings, ideal for a vegan diet! Fry and serve it alongside your vegetarian-friendly pancakes, or place it in between bread slices with lettuce, tomatoes, and vegan mayonnaise for a mouth-watering clubhouse sandwich.

No.4

SwiftUnMeat Hungarian Sausages

UnMeat Hungarian Sausages 1
Source:shopee.ph
UnMeat Hungarian Sausages 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱135
Mid

Guilt-Free Sausages for a Grill Party

Swift is a well-known brand for producing processed meats, so having meatless cold cuts is a great and innovative move for them. Another product from the UnMeat line is this Hungarian sausage. It is made from protein-rich soya and wheat with brown seaweed gum that contains iodine. They do not contain eggs as well, ideal for vegans.

Same as other UnMeat products, these Hungarian sausages do not contain GMO-processed ingredients and are 100% free from any animal by-products. You can grill them for a hassle-free barbecue party as well as garden camping. Alternatively, serve them inside hotdog buns with pickled relish for a delectable sandwich.


Keep in mind that these Hungarian sausages are slightly spicy, so let your family members try it first in smaller bites. Overall, previous buyers commend this healthy product!

No.5

Love Vegan PHDried Soybean Curd

Dried Soybean Curd 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Dried Soybean Curd 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱199
High Mid
Reference price
₱199
High Mid

Locally-Made Tofu Alternative for Meat Chicharon

Tofu has been an excellent alternative to meat dishes, often served as the main ingredient of a well-loved ulam-pulutan, sisig!. So, it is no surprise that this dried tofu or soybean curd product made it to our list. Tofu is known as a great provider of protein and amino acids, an essential tool to neutralize your digestion system. 

It has a relatively long shelf life and is versatile - you can use it to add extra texture to many homecooked dishes. But the greatest method is deep-frying them for a crispy no-meat chicharon. Alternatively, you can soak them for 20 minutes to rehydrate, then chop them into 1-inch cubes and sauté them with some veggies and oyster sauce for an easy guisado meal. 
No.6

San Miguel FoodsVEEGA Meat-Free Giniling

VEEGA Meat-Free Giniling 1
Source:shopee.ph
VEEGA Meat-Free Giniling 2
Source:shopee.ph
VEEGA Meat-Free Giniling 3
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱99
Low Mid

Plant-Based Giniling That's Free of Preservatives

Topping the list is a product from a trusted brand, San Miguel Foods. This Veega Meat-Free Giniling is already fully cooked but can be used for any meat-based recipe. It works very well as a ground beef or pork substitute. It is composed of plant-based proteins, so it is fiber and protein-rich without compromising the delicious taste.

With its versatility, you can cook different dishes with this no-meat giniling as viand for lunch and dinner like picadillo and arroz a la cubana. You can also enjoy this for parties as taco fillings and for your meatless version of spaghetti bolognese. It is definitely nutritious and safe because it is free from preservatives.


Buyers have given the product with high-star ratings. Also, many commented that the meatless giniling tastes like real meat. Hence, preparing this product for main dishes is well-received, even by picky eaters. This is definitely a must-have item for your freezer and meal plan.

No.7

San Miguel FoodsVeega Meat-Free Burger Patties

Veega Meat-Free Burger Patties 1
Source:shopee.ph
Veega Meat-Free Burger Patties 2
Source:shopee.ph
Veega Meat-Free Burger Patties 3
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱99
Low Mid

Uber-Healthy Burger Patties Made With Mushrooms

Craving for burgers but following a strict diet for your #FitnessGoals2021? Don't worry! Veega's meat-free burger patties are available to satisfy your burger craving. They are made of 100% non-GMO plant-based ingredients like vegetables and mushrooms. They are light and right with no preservatives added.

You can fry them in oil or for healthier methods- use your air fryer or oven. Enjoy it with burger buns or serve it with rice. You can add spices, tomato ketchup, and vegan mayonnaise for a flavorful dressing. Savor this no-meat meal, perfect for the entire family. 

No.8

WTH Foods (Worth the Health)J Poppers Jackfruit Nuggets

Reference price
₱250
High Mid

Crispy Jackfruit Nuggets for a Healthy Snack

Whether used for a sweet turon or a savory ginataan, jackfruit or langka is one of the most versatile fruits in the Philippines. Here's another breakthrough - you can try WTH's jackfruit poppers as a substitute for pork and chicken! They bring many health-related benefits including lowering blood pressure and improving the skin with vitamin C and potassium

To make them crunchy, deep-fry them with canola or olive oil. But if you are avoiding oily foods, you can air-fry or bake them instead. Bring out the BBQ sauce or your sweet chili dip to enjoy this satisfying and healthy snack. If you're extra hungry, it's also best paired with rice. And another good deal? Buying this product also helps the livelihood of our fruit farmers.

No.9

Foodgenics PhilippinesVeggie Embutido5pcs Per Pack

Reference price
₱155
Mid

Mini-Fiesta Everyday With This No-Meat Embutido

Embutido is a staple dish on any festive occasion. But as much as Filipinos love it, those with high blood pressure and cholesterol issues need to abstain. But frown no more! Foodgenics PH offers a healthy makeover to this well-loved recipe using turnips, carrots, bell pepper, and soybean as meat substitutes!


It is ovo-vegetarian-friendly and has a shelf life of 3-4 months when frozen. You can steam it for a healthier option, but if you want it crispy on the outside, you may fry them also. Serve it with rice and ketchup for a mini-fiesta at home. It is also a great way of introducing vegetables to your kids. 

No.10

Noemi'sVegan Garlic Longanisa With Malunggay

Vegan Garlic Longanisa With Malunggay 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Vegan Garlic Longanisa With Malunggay 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱140
Mid
Reference price
₱140
Mid

Classic Garlic Longganisa With Malunggay

Longganisa is a classic Filipino breakfast staple. For vegetarians who are missing its garlicky flavor, you don't need to deprive yourselves as Noemi's garlic longganisa is 100% vegan-friendly. The product is made of plant-based ingredients enriched with malunggay leaves. 

It is high in protein- plus, the malunggay leaves are considered as a superfood because they contain many nutrients and antioxidants that help repair our cells. They are a great provider of vitamin C as well. You'll get 7 pieces per pack that you can fry and pair with sinangag. They also offer vegan hamonado burger patties in case you don't like garlic.

What Are the Kinds of Meatless Diets?

People shift to meatless diets for a variety of reasons, primarily due to health, environmental and ethical considerations. Dietary trends are a dime a dozen, and it can be quite confusing to understand what each one entails. Here, we break down the main types of meatless diets. Read on to find out how they are different from one another.

Vegan Diets Avoid All Animal Products

Vegan Diets Avoid All Animal Products

With a vegan diet, the focus is on avoiding all animal products. This includes not just meat but all kinds of food that are sourced from an animal. Examples of this would be dairy, eggs, and honey.  


And it's not just a diet - it is an entire lifestyle. The practice extends to all aspects of life, including, but not limited to, clothing and accessories. Vegans are driven by a philosophy that seeks ways to avoid all forms of exploitation and cruelty to animals. They believe that animals and all other creatures have the right to life and freedom just like humans do. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

The Vegan lifestyle is one that needs a full commitment. It is not a fad to be used for weight loss or restriction. It is really about reducing the cruelty and exploitation of animals.


The biggest concern nutrition-wise for those on a vegan diet is their B12 source as this is not found in plant sources. But this is easily made up for via supplementation or including nutritional yeast in your diet.

Vegetarian Diets Are a Looser Version of Vegan Diets

Vegetarian Diets Are a Looser Version of Vegan Diets

Vegetarian diets are less stringent than vegan diets. While vegetarians also avoid eating meat, fish, and poultry, they are open to eating certain types of animal products. However, even among vegetarians, food choices and eating patterns may be different. 


Some may consume dairy and eggs but not honey, while others may consume dairy and honey but not eggs. These variations differ from person to person, depending on their goal. People often turn to vegetarianism for health or environmental reasons, but sometimes,  cultural and religious beliefs also play a role. . 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

With meat being removed from the diet, it is important to choose proper meat/protein substitutes! The different types of vegetarian diets can be called by including a prefix like ovo (egg), lacto (dairy), and pollo (chicken).

Plant-Based Diets Focus on Whole Foods

Plant-Based Diets Focus on Whole Foods

The plant-based diet is one that has gone through so many interpretations. It started out as a regimen introduced by Dr. Colin Campbell to distinguish diet science from the vegan philosophy. But through the years, people have come to use it interchangeably with vegan diets. While they are definitely similar, a plant-based diet is not as restrictive as a vegan diet. 


The main focus is of course, on plants and vegetables, but plant-based doesn't automatically mean 100% meatless. People on this diet may still supplement their meals with small portions of meat or animal products from time to time. The most important feature of plant-based diets more than anything else is the emphasis on whole and unprocessed foods.  

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Plant-based diets give emphasis on food items from plants which allow a focus on incorporating whole foods for higher fiber and higher nutrient intakes. Plant-based diets have been seen to reduce the risk of many lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Of course, it is important to get the proper amount of protein, B12, and iron.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Jo Sebastian

Stepping out of your comfort zone and embarking on a meatless journey is no joke. To help you be even more aware of what lies ahead, Jo Sebastian is here to answer the most typical questions people ask as they start on their meatless journey. 

Are There Nutrients in Meat That Aren't in Meat Substitutes?

The main nutrient not available in meat substitutes is B12. Most plant-based sources do not have the essential vitamin known as cobalamin. Most vegetarians, vegans, and plant-based individuals may have to use a supplement to meet their B12 needs.

Are Meat Alternatives Good for the Environment?

Meat production contributes to pollution through fossil fuel usage, animal methane, effluent waste, and water and land consumption. A large amount of land and water is used to produce meat. Simply reducing your meat consumption even just a few times a week can already make a positive impact to the environment.

Are Meat Alternatives Good for Kids?

Yes! Meat alternatives can be good for kids. It is definitely important that you ensure the right protein intake if you do choose these alternatives. So make sure that you properly substitute your animal protein sources with high protein plant-based sources.

More Tips From Jo Sebastian

Altering your diet and choosing meat substitutes can have a major positive impact on your health and the environment. High meat consumption has been linked to higher risks of heart disease and some cancers. By decreasing your animal sources of protein, it can also decrease your cholesterol levels and promote gut health.


Many individuals who choose to go vegan or vegetarian make the mistake of removing meat without replacing it. This can lead to protein deficiency, nausea and weakness among others. Make sure that if you are removing meat from your diet that you properly substitute with the right protein sources and B12!

Eat Well and Celebrate a Healthy Life

Did you know that exercising only contributes 20% to our overall physical fitness and health? The remaining 80% is based on our dietary food plan- so it is important to watch what we eat. We would like to help you pick healthier food options through our other articles to achieve your 2021 health and fitness goal. Check out the links below.

Author: Roel Pillas Malubay

Top 5 Meat Alternatives

No. 1: SwiftUnMeat Nuggets

No. 2: The Real Happy Cow PHSinigang Na 'Di Baka

No. 3: The Good Choices PHTGC Breakfast Classics - Bacon

No. 4: SwiftUnMeat Hungarian Sausages

No. 5: Love Vegan PHDried Soybean Curd

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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