Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy? Here’s What to Know
Let’s Break It Down: One of the most common questions people ask is: Are plant-based meats healthy?
The answer? It depends—mostly on what you’re comparing them to. Plant-based meat alternatives like burgers and sausages are often criticized for being processed. But does that automatically make them unhealthy?
Not necessarily. And the better question might be: Is it healthier than what I’m replacing it with?
“When it comes to health, the best question isn’t just ‘Is this healthy?’ but ‘Is it healthier than what I’m replacing it with?’”
— Dr. Michael Greger
A plant-based alternative like Beyond Meat’s Hot Italian Sausage is a healthier swap than traditional pork sausage—lower in saturated fat, cholesterol-free, and even contains some fiber.
And if you want to take it a step further, whole-food options like beans, lentils, or tempeh are even better.
So… Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy Compared to Pork or Beef?
Let’s take a closer look using one example: Beyond Meat’s Hot Italian Sausage.
Compared to traditional pork sausage, it’s:
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Lower in saturated fat
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Cholesterol-free
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Contains some fiber
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Still full of flavor and satisfying
If you want to go even further, whole food swaps like beans, lentils, or tempeh offer even more nutritional benefits. But for many, a plant-based sausage is a helpful step toward eating more plants.
What About the Environmental Impact?
Even if you’re on the fence about the health side, the environmental benefits are huge.
Plant-based meats require far fewer resources—drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land use.
They also reduce the need for feed crops that could be used to feed people.
And of course… no animals harmed.
Taste Matters Too
Let’s be real—food should taste good.
I love a juicy Beyond Hot Italian Sausage with mustard and sauerkraut, or a loaded Beyond or Impossible Burger when I’m craving something nostalgic and hearty.
And with today’s plant-based meats being more delicious than ever, it’s worth asking:
Are plant-based meats healthy enough to enjoy occasionally?
Yes—and they’re also way better for the planet.
Side-by-Side: Beyond vs. Pork Sausage
Per 3.5 oz / 100g serving:
| Nutrient | Beyond Sausage | Pork Sausage |
| Calories | 210 kcal | 297 kcal |
| Total Fat | 13 g | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g | 8.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 84 mg |
| Sodium | 460 mg | 749 mg |
| Total Carbs | 7 g | 1.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 0 g |
| Total Sugars | <1 g | 0 g |
| Protein | 17 g | 12 g |
| Iron | 3.5 mg (20% DV) | 0.6 mg (3% DV) |
| Calcium | 70 mg (4% DV) | 7 mg (1% DV) |
| Potassium | 240 mg (4% DV) | 195 mg (4% DV) |
Quick Takeaways
- Lower in Calories & Fat – Less saturated fat = better for heart health
- Cholesterol-Free – Unlike pork sausage, plant-based versions contain none
- Protein-Packed – Comparable or higher protein than traditional meat
So… Are Plant-Based Meats Healthy?
When compared to their meat-based counterparts, yes—they can be.
Especially when your goal is to cut back on saturated fat, cholesterol, and animal products, plant-based meats offer a convenient, tasty way to do it.
Whole foods like lentils and beans are always the gold standard. But that doesn’t mean a plant-based sausage isn’t worth celebrating as a step in the right direction.
It’s Easier than You Think!
Summer is the perfect time to try something new. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or bringing your own to a cookout, it’s a great way to show up for your health, the planet, and animals—without skipping the fun.
- At a recent party, Beyond Hot Italian sausages were a hit.
- And at family BBQs, plant-based burgers disappeared once the toppings came out.
Want to Try a Crowd-Pleaser?
Check out our Plant-Based Taco Salad recipe—a flavorful summer favorite, perfect for sharing.
Sources:
Dr. Michael Greger – NutritionFacts.org – Is This Healthy? Healthier Than What?
Beyond Meat – Nutritional Information
USDA Food Database – Pork Sausage Nutrition
