Easy alternatives to make your diet more plant-based

A large array of common misconceptions plague the idea of leading a plant-based lifestyle. Phrases like “rabbit food” are often tossed around aimlessly, however at a time in history where we should be more concerned about the future of our planet than ever before, the shift to plant-based alternatives should be more appealing.

More and more of our favourite brands are equipping themselves to provide for the new surge in demand for plant-based products. The nationwide love of the infamous Greggs’ vegan sausage roll in the past few years has proved immense, and many other fast food brands and supermarket giants are getting behind the plant revolution. This will make it easier for the likes of you and me to take steps towards plant-based, but it doesn’t make the change any less daunting, especially on a student budget:

• Protein

Processed plant-based substitutes like the beloved Quorn nuggets can be easy swaps to make, but this shift isn’t always economically sustainable. Even adding sources of protein like tofu or jackfruit are great ways to swap out meat or fish as the main protein source in your diet but can still be costly. Instead, trying pulses and different types of beans in your favourite dishes can give you the protein that you need whilst also not being too tough on your budget. Vegetables shouldn’t be overlooked too, with broccoli and spinach each containing more protein per calorie than steak. It can be surprising how much protein vegetables actually contain, so keeping it simple is most effective.

• Dairy

Plant-based dairy alternatives are generally easy to get hold of, and the range of plant-based milks available has skyrocketed- from regular soya milk to pea or hazelnut. There is something for everyone, and their versatility is massive. Brands like Oatly have also cornered the market on plant-based yoghurt and cream, making it easier than ever to get hold of new dairy alternatives. Despite plant-based cheeses having a stinking reputation, the market has also been expanding with many plant-based brands as well as supermarkets releasing ever more similar alternatives.

• That’s vegan?!

It has to be stressed that many of the foods and snacks that we consume daily are accidentally vegan. From Oreos to Ritz Crackers, salty and sweet cravings can still be easily fulfilled. Shoutout to the 22p bourbons from Aldi!