The Safety of Meatless Burgers, Nuggets, and Sausages Questioned: Study

Plant-based meats can become contaminated with pathogens via contact with contaminated sources of animal manure, water, or other foods. Drew Angerer/Getty Images

While plant-based products have been entering consumer markets on an unprecedented scale, an analysis of the level of additives, salt, genetically modified ingredients, and allergens in meatless alternatives has made researchers question the ultimate safety of the product.

According to The Good Food Institute’s 2020 State of the Industry Report, the U.S. retail plant-based food market grew 27.1 percent in 2020 to just over $7 billion (AUD$9.4 billion). During the past several decades, these products have moved from their niche position in the minds of consumers to mainstream on supermarket shelves and menus.