Sounds like a children’s cartoon character but tastes like chicken? Introducing the QuornTM range of vegetarian myco-protein meat substitutes. Unlike its name, there is no corn involved! QuornTM products are made with mycoprotein, a type of protein that is derived from a member of the fungi family (who would have thought). While this may make it far less appealing for some, us in the NutritionGuru kitchen have put QuornTM products to the test and found them to be quite delicious.
So why would I choose this if I have real meat?
As QuornTM products are not derived from meat, they contain very low fat, zero cholesterol and are suitable for vegetarians. If you are a meat lover but have noticed the cholesterol is creeping up, this would be an appropriate substitution for real meat (in conjunction with healthy cooking practices). The QuornTM range offers a huge variety of products so all tastes can be satisfied – from lasagne to nuggets, from ‘chicken’ like diced meat to ‘beef’ like mince. The convenience meal options, such as the lasagne and the cottage pie, also have much lower energy than their meat-based counterparts.
How does it compare to other meat substitutes?
All the NutritionGurus agreed that QuornTM definitely rates much higher than other soy-based meat substitutes in both taste and texture. Soy based meat substitutes generally don’t offer much in the way of taste and are much softer in texture than what real meat is. However, when we cooked the QuornTM sausages and diced pieces, we found them to be firm like real meat. The initial taste is not exactly equivalent to meat but when consumed with a small amount of gravy or sauce, the difference is not noticeable.
Health considerations?
QuornTM does not offer the heart health benefits that fatty fish provides. Therefore, the first priority for meat substitution should be to replace it with fatty fish a few times a week. As QuornTM is not animal derived it does not contain the same amount of iron content as lean red meat. Therefore for those with low iron levels and espcially for females who are undergoing puberty, sufficient iron intake (most available through lean red meat) should be priority.
Allergy considerations?
Some individuals have reported adverse reactions related to the consumption of myco-protein based products, possible due to it being derived from a fungus. European research indicates that approximately 1 individual in 100,000 to 200,000 may react to these products and it is most likely individuals who already react to other fungi or mould. In Australia, no medically confirmed reactions have been reported, but if any reaction is suspected the most appropriate plan of action is to stop consuming the product and see your doctor.
Where can I get it?
QuornTM is available from your local supermarket. You can find out more online at www.quorn.com
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