The ground beef sizzles on the skillet as you are cooking some burgers or perhaps even some classic ground beef tacos. You have always loved meat, especially beef. But why is Beef problematic besides being an animal treatment issue? 

Beef is a very problematic industry when it comes to climate change. The methane and CO2 released from cow’s flatulence can warm up the atmosphere and cause global warming. This CO2 can be absorbed by the oceans, warming them and causing sea levels to rise, as well as causing massive pollution issues in the atmosphere around the world affecting many people’s health. 

Beef can also be bad for health. Beef can significantly increase Cholesterol and increase the risk for high blood pressure, and blood clots, and can even lead to death. They can also be very high in fats, and saturated fats which can also be detrimental to health. Making beef an unhealthy choice to be consumed often, which is why reduced intake is necessary. 

There are some solutions that can help you get your meat fix without partaking in eating actual meat. 

Alternative meats can be made industrially, or even by making homemade alternatives. 

Industrially made meats are often made of soy and plant proteins like beans, peas, and brown rice. Beyond Meat, ”We use a variety of non-GMO plant proteins including pea, brown rice, mung bean and fava bean.”(Beyond Meat). Another great alternative if you don’t care about it being too natural is Impossible Meat, “Protein from soy, Flavor from heme (the molecule that makes meat taste, well, meaty), Fat from sunflower and coconut oils makes it sizzle on the griddle, Binders hold it together so you can make anything you want — meatloaf, kebabs, chili, and more.” (Impossible Meats) 

Many alternatives can be made in your kitchen. Many nuts like walnuts, cashews, pecans, etc. These nut varieties provide a meat-like texture and can be dressed up with various flavors to create a meat-like experience. It is also a great source of protein and nutrients. These methods are mainly used to replace ground beef in tacos, salads, etc. 

A homemade alternative for beef patties and more structured meals is Quinoa, Kale, Black beans, breadcrumbs can create the ideal Burger experience at home without relying on industrially made meat alternatives. 

Some recipes that are very highly regarded on the Internet include a recipe that uses mushrooms and walnuts. (LoveandLemons) Here is a recipe for Tofu “ground beef”(Yummly).  These recipes are nutritious, letting you get your daily protein and nutrient needs, while helping reduce cholesterol, improve gut and heart health, and, help reduce your carbon footprint. 

These steps seem insignificant, but if enough people reduce their meat intake, or even eliminate it, it will make a huge difference in the climate crisis, as well as improve the overall health of the world and create a healthier relationship with food. 

Let kids in the future have the option to know what a polar bear or shark looks like.