Unpacking the Grill'd Menu: The Real Meat Revelation
For many Australian burger lovers, Grill'd is synonymous with 'healthy burgers' and a commitment to quality ingredients. This reputation has, however, created some confusion regarding the source of their protein. With the rise of their plant-based range, including partners like Beyond Meat, many people have asked: "Is Grill'd real meat?" The answer is that Grill'd offers both genuine, high-quality animal meat and a growing selection of plant-based alternatives.
The Real Meat Story: Australian Sourcing and High Standards
Grill'd takes pride in the sourcing of its traditional animal-based meats. For their beef burgers, the company explicitly states they use 100% Australian grass-fed beef, sourced from family-run farms in regions like Gippsland, Southern Tablelands, and Riverina. They favour premium Angus and Hereford breeds known for producing quality meat. This beef is free from preservatives, antibiotics, and added hormones. Similarly, their chicken is 100% Australian and RSPCA Approved, indicating a commitment to animal welfare standards.
The Plant-Based Expansion: The Rise of Meat Alternatives
While their commitment to real meat is clear, Grill'd has also enthusiastically embraced the plant-based movement. This has included strategic partnerships with major brands in the meat alternative industry, most recently with Beyond Meat. The introduction of these products, along with specific promotions and themed stores, is a key reason for the ongoing consumer confusion. The Beyond Burger patties, for example, are made entirely from plants, using ingredients like peas, brown rice, red lentils, and faba beans.
The Plant-Based Patty Lowdown
- Beyond Patty: The latest version of this plant-based burger is made with heart-healthy avocado oil and contains 20g of protein per patty. It is certified vegan, free of soy, gluten, and GMOs.
- Garden Goodness Patty: A premium veggie patty loaded with garden vegetables. This is another popular vegan option available on the menu.
- Former Impossible Partnership: At one point, Grill'd also featured the Impossible Burger, which is also a plant-based alternative. This was part of a larger push into the meat-free market. Grill'd has since transitioned to the Beyond Burger, citing a constant review of menu options for health and taste.
Navigating the Grill'd Menu: How to Tell What's What
Grill'd makes a significant effort to clearly delineate between its meat and plant-based options. Menus are generally categorised, and specific items are labelled to avoid mix-ups. For instance, you will find a dedicated section for 'Beyond Burgers' or 'Vegan Burgers'. Furthermore, most burgers featuring a plant-based patty will explicitly say so in the description, and they can often be swapped into traditional recipes.
Comparison: Real Meat vs. Plant-Based Patties
| Feature | Grill'd Real Meat (Beef/Chicken) | Grill'd Plant-Based (Beyond/Garden Goodness) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | 100% Australian grass-fed beef (Angus, Hereford) or RSPCA Approved chicken | Plant proteins (peas, brown rice, lentils), vegetables, oils (avocado) |
| Saturated Fat | Varies by cut, but can be high | Typically lower; Beyond Burger IV has 2g per serving |
| Cholesterol | Contains cholesterol | Contains zero dietary cholesterol |
| Sodium | Generally less, depending on preparation | Can sometimes be higher due to processing |
| Vitamins/Minerals | Natural source of iron, B12, and other nutrients | Fortified with vitamins and minerals; may contain B12 |
| Environmental Impact | Higher footprint due to animal agriculture | Significantly lower footprint (less land, water, emissions) |
| Animal Welfare | Sourced from RSPCA Approved/family farms | Not applicable; no animal products used |
Conclusion: Grill'd Offers Choice, Not a Replacement
In summary, the notion that Grill'd serves only plant-based meat is a misconception. The company has a long history of serving high-quality, real Australian meat, a practice they continue today with strict sourcing policies. The confusion stems from their successful and well-publicised expansion into plant-based alternatives to cater to a broader range of dietary preferences. Whether you are a traditional meat-eater or exploring vegan options, Grill'd provides both, clearly labelled on their menu. For those concerned about health or environmental impact, comparing the nutritional and environmental differences between real and plant-based options is helpful, but ultimately, the choice is yours. The restaurant's commitment is to offer a variety of options, not to replace real meat entirely.
Want to know more about the ethical sourcing of Grill'd meat? Visit the Grill'd official website for their sourcing policy: Grill'd: Our Impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of beef does Grill'd use?
Grill'd uses 100% Australian grass-fed beef, sourced from Australian family-run farms in regions like Gippsland and the Southern Tablelands.
Is Grill'd chicken real meat?
Yes, all chicken served at Grill'd is real, 100% Australian chicken breast that is RSPCA Approved.
Are Grill'd burgers processed meat?
Grill'd states that its beef, lamb, and chicken are free from antibiotics, hormones, chemicals, and preservatives. While the patties are formed, the meat itself is not considered highly processed like some other fast-food options.
Are all Grill'd burgers plant-based?
No, Grill'd offers a diverse menu that includes both real meat and plant-based burgers, with clearly marked options to differentiate between the two.
What is the plant-based patty at Grill'd?
Grill'd currently uses the Beyond Burger, a plant-based patty made from ingredients like peas, brown rice, and lentils. They have also featured the Impossible Burger in the past.
Can I swap a meat patty for a vegan one?
Yes, Grill'd allows customers to swap any meat patty for a Beyond plant-based patty or a Garden Goodness veggie patty on most burgers.
How does the Beyond Meat patty at Grill'd differ from their real meat?
The Beyond Meat patty is entirely plant-based, contains no cholesterol, and is often lower in saturated fat than beef. Real meat offers naturally occurring nutrients like B12 and iron, but has a higher environmental footprint.
