Are MorningStar Veggie Burgers Healthy? Unpacking the Nutrition

December 27, 2025 •

3 min read

While some MorningStar veggie burgers are low in calories and fat, many varieties rely on heavily processed soy protein and can be surprisingly high in sodium. Understanding the full picture beyond the label is crucial for determining if they are a healthy addition to your diet.

Quick Summary

MorningStar veggie burgers offer lower fat and cholesterol than beef but are often highly processed with significant sodium. Nutritional value varies between products like the garden vegetable and more meat-mimicking varieties, which rely heavily on soy isolates and other additives.

Key Points

Nutritional Variation: Not all MorningStar burgers are the same; the Garden Veggie is lower in fat and calories than the Grillers Original, which is formulated to be more meat-like.
High Sodium Content: A major health caveat is the high sodium levels found in most MorningStar burgers, which can be a concern for those watching their blood pressure.
Processed Ingredients: Many varieties are considered ultra-processed, relying on soy protein isolates and other additives for texture and flavor, which contrasts with whole-foods-based veggie burgers.
Lower Saturated Fat and Cholesterol: Compared to a beef burger, MorningStar products offer a clear advantage with lower saturated fat and no cholesterol.
Part of a Balanced Diet: MorningStar burgers can be a convenient and healthier alternative to beef, but they should be consumed in moderation as part of a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods.

A Closer Look at MorningStar's Nutritional Profile

When evaluating the healthiness of any food, it is important to look beyond a single metric. For MorningStar veggie burgers, the answer is complex and depends heavily on the specific product line. While they are a plant-based alternative to beef, their nutritional composition varies, and a closer inspection of their ingredients reveals they are not all created equal. Many varieties, such as the Garden Veggie, offer a more straightforward combination of vegetables, grains, and protein, while others like the Grillers Original or Grillers Prime utilize more processed components like textured vegetable protein and soy protein isolates to mimic the texture of meat.

Comparing Different MorningStar Burger Varieties

MorningStar offers several distinct types of veggie burgers, each with a different nutritional profile. The Garden Veggie burger, for example, is primarily made from vegetables and soy protein, providing a relatively low-calorie and fat option with a decent amount of protein and fiber. In contrast, the Grillers Original or Grillers Prime patties are engineered to more closely resemble a traditional beef burger in both taste and texture. This is achieved through a more extensive list of ingredients, including higher fat and processed components, resulting in a higher calorie and fat count.

The Double-Edged Sword of Processed Ingredients

A key consideration for the health-conscious consumer is the level of processing. Most MorningStar burgers fall into the category of ultra-processed foods. This is due to ingredients like soy protein concentrate, textured vegetable protein, wheat gluten, and a variety of flavorings and binders. While these ingredients are what give the burgers their structure and meaty taste, they mean the burgers are not in the same health category as a simple, homemade black bean or lentil patty. High processing is often associated with higher sodium and lower overall nutrient density compared to whole-food alternatives. Additionally, some varieties contain allergens like egg whites or dairy-derived whey, meaning they are vegetarian but not vegan.

The Sodium and Fat Equation

Another point of concern for many health-focused individuals is the sodium content. A single serving of some MorningStar burgers can contain a significant portion of the recommended daily intake for sodium. While this is often a trade-off for flavor in processed foods, it's a critical factor for anyone monitoring their blood pressure or sodium intake. On the other hand, a clear health benefit over traditional beef burgers is the lower saturated fat and cholesterol content, as MorningStar burgers are plant-based. For example, some varieties contain zero cholesterol, a notable difference from standard ground beef.

Making a Healthier Choice

To maximize the health benefits of a MorningStar veggie burger, consider these tips:

Choose varieties with simpler, more recognizable ingredients, like the Garden Veggie burgers.
Pair your burger with whole-food sides, such as a large salad or roasted vegetables, instead of fries.
Pay close attention to sodium levels, especially if you are concerned about blood pressure. Be mindful of sodium in your condiments and buns as well.
To boost fiber, choose a whole-wheat bun over a white one.
If you have the time, a homemade veggie burger from black beans, chickpeas, and spices will always be a less-processed, lower-sodium alternative. For more insights on the trade-offs of plant-based meats, you can consult sources like this blog from Harvard Health: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/impossible-and-beyond-how-healthy-are-these-meatless-burgers-2019081517448.

Comparison Table: MorningStar vs. Beef


Nutrient	MorningStar Garden Veggie (approximate)	MorningStar Grillers Original (approximate)	85% Lean Ground Beef (approximate)
Calories	110	130	220 (cooked)
Total Fat	3.5g	6g	15g
Saturated Fat	0.5g	1g	6g
Sodium	350mg	260mg	75mg
Protein	10g	15g	22g
Fiber	3g	2g	0g
Cholesterol	0mg	0mg	80mg

Conclusion: A Convenient Option with Caveats

Ultimately, whether a MorningStar veggie burger is "healthy" depends on your dietary goals and what you are comparing it to. As a replacement for a high-fat beef burger, many MorningStar varieties offer a significant reduction in saturated fat and cholesterol, along with a boost in fiber. However, their status as a processed food means they often carry a high sodium load and are not a whole-food product. For those seeking the healthiest possible option, a homemade burger from whole grains and legumes remains the superior choice. As a convenient, lower-fat alternative to traditional meat, however, MorningStar burgers can be a useful and enjoyable part of a balanced diet, provided you are mindful of their sodium content and overall level of processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ingredients vary by product. The Garden Veggie burger contains ingredients like vegetables, soy protein concentrate, brown rice, and oats. The Grillers Original is made from wheat gluten, soy protein concentrate, and egg whites, among other things.

Yes, most MorningStar burgers are considered ultra-processed foods. They are manufactured using industrial processes and include ingredients like soy protein isolates, flavorings, and binders that are not found in a natural food state.

No, many MorningStar products, including some veggie burgers, contain egg whites or dairy-derived whey, making them vegetarian but not vegan. Always check the specific product label for confirmation.

The Garden Veggie burgers are typically lower in fat and calories, while varieties like the Grillers Original or Grillers Prime, which are designed to mimic meat, have a higher fat content but more protein.

From a saturated fat and cholesterol perspective, yes. MorningStar burgers are plant-based and have significantly less saturated fat and no cholesterol compared to a traditional beef patty. However, beef burgers are less processed and contain less sodium.

Yes, many MorningStar varieties are relatively high in sodium. For example, some Grillers burgers contain a significant portion of the recommended daily sodium intake in a single serving.

You can make it healthier by using a whole-wheat bun, loading it with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomato, and opting for condiments that are low in sodium and sugar. Pairing it with a side salad instead of fries also helps.