Meat Alternatives Examined

Recently, GOOD compared the sustainability and environmental impact of meat compared to three popular varieties of meat alternatives—tofu, seitan, and tempeh. The conclusion was that while organic, locally produced, and grass-fed meat might produce less of an impact on the planet, that meat-free substitutions are ultimately the most sustainable and healthful option available to consumers. Last week, Slate examined the controversial issue of grass-fed cows versus cows fed only grain on factory farms and concluded that health risks were almost identical among the two. Both investigations encouraged reducing meat consumption from diets.