PLANT-BASED
FAST FOOD OPTIONS

We’re always looking for healthy food options, so much so that the popularity of plant-based dishes has been on the rise for quite some time now. Impossible, and Beyond Meat, both of which are plant-based meat substitutes, are no longer thought of as some odd fad.

Even our beloved fast food bastions are getting in on the action. Carl’s Jr. was one of the first to get on the plant-based train with its Beyond Famous Star burger. Burger King soon followed with its tasty Impossible Whopper. Del Taco also offers its own Beyond Taco and Beyond Burrito. KFC, earlier this year, tested its own Beyond faux fried chicken.

And now, McDonald’s has started testing its non-meat entry with its McPlant burger at its El Segundo and Manhattan Beach locations. This new item is more akin to a Quarter Pounder than the Big Mac. And while the “meat” patty itself doesn’t taste at all like beef, the burger, prepped with mayo, ketchup, lettuce, pickles, onions, cheese and tomatoes, tastes very much like a McDonald’s burger. It hits on all those familiar notes, including a sesame seed bun. Do note that this is not a vegan option as there is mayo and cheese so it’s more vegetarian friendly.

The McPlant, just like the Impossible Whopper, is a fine meatless meal option. They both satisfy any burger craving you might have and they both taste burger delicious.

Not to be outdone, Panda Express is also testing its Beyond The Original Orange Chicken at its Los Feliz, Lynwood and Long Beach locations. They claim they are combining delicious Orange Chicken flavors with Beyond Meat’s plant-based protein. This one, for me, missed the mark as it, sadly, tasted dry and bland. I’m a big orange chicken fan and this substitute did not satisfy. Maybe, over time, they’ll get the seasoning right and present it so it’s not so dry (this is why they’re testing it).  I’ll give Panda an A for effort but a C- for its actual delivery.  It’s just not quite there yet.

I’m all for meatless options and I appreciate the effort that fast food businesses are making. Sure, I know I can always count on Veggie Grill, Vegan Glory or Real Food Daily for quality meatless meals, but it’s a good thing when we can get fast and affordable plant-based dishes on the go.

Photography Courtesy Of: Plant-Based