Plant-based swaps that deserve the hype

22nd April 2021 | Eativity editors

As the effects of climate change increase, so too does the everyday Australian’s unease. According to The Australia Institute‘s most recent Climate of the Nation report – which has been tracking attitudes to climate change since 2007 – concerns about the environment continue to grow, with the Black Summer bushfires and the COVID crisis only strengthening Australian resolve for all levels of government to take action. In response to their worries about the environment, one in three Australians are now consciously limiting their meat consumption. Many are also turning to plant-based alternatives for food and drinks.

In Australia, soy and almond milk production alone is worth a staggering $237.1 million, and this figure continues to rise. According to industry estimates, the global plant-based milk market will reach $21.52 billion in 2024. But while consumers want to choose more planet-friendly options, they still want value for money. So, are plant-based products worth it?

Well, some are better than others. But these days, plant-based substitutes are often made so well, you can barely tell them apart from what they’re replacing. All of the below plant-based swaps won Product of The Year awards in 2021, voted for by Aussie consumers.

Plant-based swaps that deserve the hype: v2food

v2food

From the creators of the Hungry Jack’s Rebel Whopper comes v2food’s newly released range of plant-based meat. v2food has taken protein from legumes and turned it into something that looks, cooks and tastes like meat. Developed in conjunction with the CSIRO and made in Australia, v2food is Australia’s answer to the world’s leading plant-based brands. You can find it at Woolworths, Coles and independent supermarkets.

Plant-based swaps that deserve the hype: Nescafe Gold

Nescafé Gold

Nescafé Gold plant-based range is the world’s first dairy alternative latte. The range is available in three dairy alternative variants – Almond, Coconut and Oat. Each is made with a blend of high-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee beans with a specially selected blend of plant-based ingredients. As a result, every cup is creamy, even without the dairy. You can find it at Coles and selected independent stores.

Plant-based swaps that deserve the hype: Passage to India curry bowls

Passage to India curry bowls

Passage to India bowls feature plant-based ingredients, contain no artificial additives and taste like the real thing. The four flavours include Butter Masala, Cashew Korma, Tadka Lentil Dal and Goan Spiced Coconut. For lovers of butter chicken, the plant-based version has the same consistency and taste. They’re available at all major supermarkets.

Plant-based swaps that deserve the hype: 7 Eleven No Sausage Roll

7 Eleven No Sausage Roll

7-Eleven’s No Sausage Roll is the quick and easy vegan-friendly alternative to the Aussie classic. A seasoned-to-perfection plant-based protein forms the filling. It also comes wrapped in vegan pastry and it tastes just like the real McCoy.