Faux Meats Not Veg

As vegetarians, we often rely on prepackaged meal-makers, like veggie burgers and soy jerky, and find comfort knowing we are eating cruelty-free food. A recent investigation in Taipei, however, has proven that consumers shouldn’t be so trusting. Of 31 vegetarian food samples collected from vendors in Taipei City and County for safety checks, 17 samples contained meat. Perhaps more startling was the discovery of 20 percent beef or pork found in vegetarian patties, ham, and shredded pork from the two most serious cases. Taipei’s Investigation Bureau has vowed to refer vendors who knowingly added meat for prosecution on fraud charges. If you find yourself in Taipei anytime soon, use caution when selecting substitutes.