Have you heard of the plant-based diet?

And no, we don’t mean a diet that helps you lose weight. In this case, ‘diet’ refers to your eating habits as a whole.

Having been recognised and applauded globally, this new lifestyle trend is quickly gaining popularity all around the world, with many opting to make the switch.

What’s unique about the plant-based diet is that it doesn’t require completely giving up meat, which is what sets it apart from a vegetarian or vegan diet. Instead, it’s characterised by its flexibility. That’s why it’s also known as the flexitarian diet.

Even here in Malaysia, the plant-based diet has hit the sweet spot for those who want to have a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle without completely going meat-free

The plant-based diet focuses more on incorporating plant proteins and other plant-based foods into your diet wherever possible. But at the same time, it still offers you the flexibility of being able to consume meat and other animal products occasionally.

Depending on your interpretation of the diet, things like eggs, meat, and seafood don’t necessarily have to be off limits, as you can just decide to eat them less frequently.

In short, it’s about cutting down, not cutting out.

So, is a plant-based diet good for you?

Yep, it is!

Though you’re not completely going meat-free, you’ll still be incorporating more healthy foods into your diet, with a particular emphasis on vegetables, fruits, and beans. This results in your overall diet being more nutritious, better for the planet, and kinder to animals.

And of course, it’s also better for your health, as plant protein-enriched diets are known for their health benefits, such as reducing the risk of overall and cardiovascular disease mortality.

Huang J, Liao LM, Weinstein SJ, Sinha R, Graubard BI, Albanes D. Association Between Plant and Animal Protein Intake and Overall and Cause-Specific Mortality. JAMA Intern Med. 2020; 180(9): 1173–1184. doi: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2020.2790. Retrieved from link.

In response to the growing demand for sustainable, environmentally-friendly and healthy plant-based protein options in Malaysia, Nestlé has stepped up to deliver

Introducing Harvest Gourmet, a new brand under Nestlé dedicated to offering plant-based solutions.

Harvest Gourmet products will be manufactured from Nestlé’s pioneer plant-based manufacturing facility in Shah Alam, Selangor. This makes Malaysia the host for Nestlé’s first plant-based facility in Southeast Asia, which will cater to both local and export markets.

Now, Malaysians will be able to enjoy the brand’s comprehensive range of halal plant-based food products. From delicious meat-free burgers to mouthwatering fillets, they’ve got it all!

Made from 100% plant-based protein derived from soy and wheat, Nestlé Harvest Gourmet’s food products are yummy as well as quick and easy to prepare, whether you’re pan-frying, grilling, or using an air fryer.

How does Nestlé Harvest Gourmet make their products taste so good? It’s all thanks to their proprietary method of fermenting plant-based ingredients, which boost that ‘umami’ flavour that meat-eaters crave for.

They also recently collaborated with KyoChon to come up with an amazing meat-free, green menu. If you haven’t tried it yet, you totally should!

Here are some simple and fun ways of adding plant-based foods into your everyday meals:

1. Get creative in the kitchen!

Experiment with your cooking by substituting meat with plant-based proteins like tofu, cauliflower, chickpeas, mushrooms, butternut squash, eggplant, jackfruit, tempeh, and more. Come up with new recipes, or just use them to create alternative versions of your favourite meat dishes.

Or, if you’re malas to make it from scratch yourself, give Nestlé Harvest Gourmet’s range of halal plant-based products a try!

2. Go totally green on specific days

This is a great option for those who are trying out a plant-based diet for the first time. Setting specific meatless days for yourself will help you stick to the plan as you get used to this new diet. Don’t be afraid to go all out on those days—explore new recipes, dishes, and ingredients.

Here are some ideas:

– Bring homecooked plant-based meals as bekal to work or campus

– Order in Nestlé Harvest Gourmet x KyoChon’s Meat-Free Wrap or Bibimbap

– Have plant-based breakfasts and lunches, saving meat for dinners only

3. Stick to familiar recipes and flavours when making your plant-based meals

That way, you can still enjoy your favourite meals, so you won’t feel like you’re missing out. And the best part is that you’ll be chowing down on healthier, more sustainable versions of the dishes you know and love.

For example, whip up your favourite rendang, varuval, stir-fry, or burger using Nestlé Harvest Gourmet’s plant-based chargrilled pieces/patties or Stir Fry Mince Chicken & Ground Mince Beef.

They’re made with natural and quality ingredients such as pomegranate, beetroot, paprika, blackcurrant, carrot, non-GMO soy, and wheat, making them rich in protein, low in fat, and a good source of fibre.

Nestlé Harvest Gourmet’s plant-based food products will be available on e-commerce platforms from mid-April 2021, and in selected supermarkets from mid-May 2021 onwards, so keep an eye out!

Just imagine having a guilt-free meal that’s packed with plant-based goodness without compromising on taste… mmmm, the future certainly sounds delicious!

Click here for more information on Nestlé Harvest Gourmet, and make sure to stay tuned to their Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for all the latest updates.

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