What are protein alternatives?

Protein alternatives refer to manufactured protein food products that are specifically designed to serve as substitutes for meat or fish in a person's diet. These alternatives are often created to provide similar taste and texture to meat while catering to various dietary preferences, such as vegetarianism or veganism. Examples include products made from soy, pea protein, mycoprotein, and other plant-based ingredients, which mimic the protein content and culinary uses of traditional meat.

This category is particularly relevant in discussions about alternative proteins in the context of growing concerns over sustainability, animal welfare, and health. While natural protein sources found in meat and traditional meat products are certainly important, they do not fall under the definition of protein alternatives as they are not designed or marketed specifically to replace animal-based proteins in the diet. Additionally, fruits and vegetables, while they may contain some protein, are not primarily recognized for their protein content or used as direct substitutes for meat or fish.