The Future of Snacking
Many health-conscious consumers today are searching for healthy, high-protein snacks that provide more energy without the heavy calories—snacks that are made from sustainable, eco-friendly ingredients and still become flavourful and appealing. Mycoprotein (often referred to as “Quorn”) has been around for many years now but is starting to receive more media attention as the demand for healthier food continues to increase in the UK.
Mycoprotein is made from an edible fungus, closely related to the mushroom family. Thanks to its combination of fibre, protein (approximately 45 per cent), and low fat and calorie content per serving, it has become one of the hottest plant-based snacks available in the UK and is already becoming recognised as a future healthy snack in the UK.
So what exactly is Mycoprotein?
Mycoprotein is a fungus-derived protein source (Fusarium venenatum), but don’t worry-it’s not the type of fungus that’s found growing on the backside of your refrigerator!
Mycoprotein is produced through fermentation (i.e., The same way that beer and yogurt are produced). The nutrient profile of Mycoprotein differentiates itself from other protein sources. The research shows that Mycoprotein has:
- A high amount of protein (up to 30% of total calories)
- A high amount of fiber to help keep you full after eating
- A low amount of fat and calories compared to other animal sources of protein
- And it contains an abundance of umami flavor
Essentially, if you love to snack but hate the guilt that you feel from doing so, Mycoprotein is your go-to ingredient. This is a Great Match for the New UK Lifestyle
You’re probably looking for protein-packed snacks that are:
- Quick, Easy, and Convenient
- Better For You
- Environmentally Sustainable
- Tastes Good!
Recent research shows that the most important things to UK families are their health and nutrition. Mycoprotein satisfies all of these. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly popular with all age groups.
The Bottom Line: Mycoprotein Represents the Future
Mycoprotein, produced from the fermented biomass of filamentous fungi, has quickly become one of the hottest food trends in the UK. It meets all of the major consumer demands for food today, including:
- Improved Nutrition
- Tasty
- Sustainable
- Convenient
- Familiar
While there are few ingredients that can meet all these needs simultaneously, mycoprotein has filled that void. Many new products, especially snack foods, containing mycoprotein are making their way to store shelves now, and it’s only going to continue to grow in popularity. It’s about time.