Common misconceptions about plant proteins often arise due to a lack of understanding or misinformation. It’s essential to clarify these misconstructions to provide accurate information about plant-based protein sources. Here are some of the most common ones.
Plant Proteins are Nutritionally Incomplete and Don’t Provide Enough Protein
According to Healthline, one of the biggest misconceptions is that plant proteins are nutritionally incomplete and that people can’t get enough protein on a plant-based diet. There are a multitude of plant foods that are rich sources of protein. These include: tofu, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains. While some plant sources may be lower in specific amino acids, most can provide a complete profile when combined with other plant foods. For example, rice and beans together form a complete protein.
Plant Proteins Are Inferior to Animal Proteins
Some people believe that animal proteins are superior to plant proteins in terms of quality. However, many plant proteins can meet the body’s protein needs when consumed in a well-balanced diet. They also come with the added benefits of being lower in saturated fat and devoid of cholesterol. According to Dr Roxanne Becker, plant proteins have always been viewed as inferior to animal proteins regarding building muscle and strength. However, we are accumulating more and more research that suggests that this gap is not nearly as large as previously thought.
You Need to Eat Large Amounts of Plant Proteins
It’s a misconception that you need to consume massive quantities of plant proteins to meet your nutritional needs. Plant-based protein sources can be just as effective as animal sources when incorporated into a balanced diet.
Plant Proteins Are Not as Digestible
It’s true that some plant foods contain anti-nutrients like phytates, which can inhibit nutrient absorption. But cooking, soaking, or fermentation can reduce these compounds, making plant proteins more digestible..
You Need to Combine Proteins at Every Meal
The idea of protein complementarity, where you must combine specific plant foods at each meal to get a complete protein, is outdated. As long as you eat a variety of plant foods over the course of a day or week, your body will receive all the essential amino acids it needs.
All Plant Proteins Are Equal
Some plant proteins are richer in certain essential amino acids than others, so a varied plant-based diet ensures you receive a balanced intake of nutrients.
Addressing these misconceptions with accurate information can help individuals make informed choices about incorporating plant-based proteins into their diets.
Valpro Path aims not only to change consumer attitudes towards alternative sources of dietary protein, but to develop novel products centered around specific plant crops, including chickpeas, peas, soybeans, lupin, lentils, and faba beans. For example, within the VALRPO project, we plan to manufacture vegetable burgers, baked goods, and pasta derived from these crops. So stay stuned and follow our Newsroom for updates.