Seeing that it’s National Veggie Burger Day (June 5) and it was just National Hamburger Day (May 28), I feel obligated — in the best way — to take a moment and explain why you need to try a plant‑based burger.
And no, I’m not talking about those sad, early‑2000s “veggie” patties that looked and tasted like hockey pucks. I mean actual burgers made from plant‑sourced ingredients — the kind that have come a long, long way from their frozen‑aisle ancestors.
And before you ask if I have a favorite… well, yes and no. But since this isn’t a sponsored post, I’m not here to crown a winner. Honestly, I don’t think there is one clear winner — just like I don’t think there isn’t room on your plate for both plant‑based burgers and beef. Flexibility is kind of the whole point.
From health to sustainability to taste, plant-based burgers have come a long way — and they’re worth a try.
Are plant‑based burgers healthier?
Eh… debatable.
Yes, some plant‑based burgers look “healthier” on the surface — fewer saturated fats, more fiber, no cholesterol — but a lot of them are LOADED with sodium and what I lovingly call make‑believe ingredients. So, it’s not as simple as “plant = good, meat = bad.”
What is true? Most Americans eat way too much meat. So balancing your diet with a mix of plant‑based foods and responsibly sourced animal products isn’t just reasonable — it’s smart. Regardless of what the die‑hard vegans say. (And yes, I’ve gotten my fair share of hate mail.)
One person even accused me of suggesting it’s okay to eat “dumb animals but not smart ones.” I know. I know. What a dumbass.
Are plant‑based burgers better for the planet?
Again… eh. Also debatable.
Agricultural runoff and horrific farming practices — looking at you, CAFOs — are undeniably awful for the environment. But properly raised, humanely cared‑for animals (cue the emails about how “raising an animal for slaughter can’t be humane”) are not the enemy. Responsible husbandry exists. It matters. And it makes a difference.
My one ask? If you’re going to eat meat, make it local. Know your farmer. Support the people who treat their land — and their animals — with respect.
Bottom line — if there can be a bottom line in a five‑minute read — there’s absolutely room on your plate (and mine) for both beef burgers and plant‑based ones. Flexibility tastes good. And if you need proof, just look at the photos… even my husband’s friends liked them.
So why not give a plant‑based “burger” a whirl? And if you do, drop me a note and tell me what you think. Unless you’re one of the haters — in which case, kindly F off.
Leave a Reply