Impossible vs. Beyond: A Nutritional Overview
Both Impossible and Beyond products have revolutionized the plant-based meat market by mimicking the taste and texture of real meat. While both offer a high-protein, zero-cholesterol alternative to beef, a closer look at their nutritional makeup reveals distinct differences that may influence your purchasing decision. The ultimate 'healthier' option depends on which specific nutritional factors are most important to you, such as saturated fat content, fortification, or ingredient processing.
Ingredient Differences
The protein source is a major divergence between the two brands. Impossible products, such as their popular burger patties, primarily use soy protein concentrate. To achieve its signature 'meaty' flavor and color, Impossible also uses soy leghemoglobin (heme), a molecule produced through genetically modified (GM) yeast. For consumers concerned about soy or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), this is a significant factor.
In contrast, Beyond Meat products source their protein from a mix of peas, mung beans, and brown rice. Beyond is also certified non-GMO, making it a preferable choice for those who avoid genetically modified ingredients. Instead of heme, Beyond uses beet juice extract to give its products a red, meat-like appearance. The fat sources also vary slightly; both use coconut and sunflower oil, but Beyond also includes cocoa butter.
Beyond the Macros: Saturated Fat and Sodium
When comparing standard burger patties, the most notable difference is the saturated fat content. The Beyond Burger consistently has less saturated fat than the Impossible Burger. For a 4-ounce patty, Beyond has about 6 grams of saturated fat, while Impossible contains around 8 grams. Given that saturated fat is linked to heart disease, this difference could be a deciding factor for some consumers.
Both products, however, are significantly higher in sodium than unseasoned ground beef. A 4-ounce Beyond Burger contains around 390 mg of sodium, while a comparable Impossible Burger has about 370 mg. This high sodium level is a result of the extensive processing required to create the meaty flavor and should be a consideration for those monitoring their salt intake.
Fortification and Processing
Impossible Foods fortifies its products with a range of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, zinc, and iron, to more closely match the nutritional profile of beef. This can be a benefit for vegans or vegetarians who may have deficiencies in these areas. The Beyond Burger is not as heavily fortified, though it still contains a good amount of iron.
It is critical to remember that both Impossible and Beyond are highly processed foods. While they may be plant-based, they are not whole foods. The ingredients are isolated and combined in a factory, rather than being a simple, natural product. This contrasts with homemade veggie burgers made from whole foods like beans and lentils, which offer more fiber and fewer processed additives.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Impossible Burger (Approx.) | Beyond Burger (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Soy protein concentrate | Pea, mung bean, and rice protein |
| Calories (4 oz) | 240 kcal | 250 kcal |
| Saturated Fat (4 oz) | 8 grams | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates (4 oz) | 9 grams | 3 grams |
| Sodium (4 oz) | 370 mg | 390 mg |
| Fortification | Higher in B vitamins, zinc | Less fortified |
| GMO | Contains GMO ingredients | Non-GMO |
| Allergens | Contains soy | Soy-free, gluten-free |
Which Should You Choose?
The answer to which is healthier, Impossible or Beyond, is not straightforward and depends on your individual health priorities. If your main concern is reducing saturated fat, the Beyond Burger is the clearer winner. If you are not concerned about soy or GMOs and are looking for added vitamins and minerals, the fortified Impossible Burger may be more appealing. For those with soy allergies, Beyond is the obvious choice. However, both are still considered processed foods and contain high levels of sodium compared to traditional beef, so moderation is key. For the absolute healthiest option, consider making your own veggie burgers from whole ingredients like beans and lentils.
For a more detailed look into plant-based eating and its impact, explore resources like those from Healthline. Ultimately, understanding your own health goals and dietary restrictions is the most important factor in deciding which brand is best for you.
Conclusion
While both Impossible and Beyond offer a healthier environmental footprint and avoid animal products, their nutritional profiles have subtle yet important differences. The Beyond Burger has a slight edge in saturated fat content and is soy-free and non-GMO, but the Impossible Burger provides more fortification with essential vitamins. Both are highly processed and high in sodium, emphasizing that they are not whole food alternatives. Consumers should weigh these trade-offs based on their personal health objectives. For a truly whole-food diet, homemade plant-based burgers are the superior choice.
