Spotlight: gardein™

As you may know already, I am vegetarian and a runner. Because I run so frequently and live a pretty frenetic lifestyle, I sometimes find it difficult to supplement with enough high-quality vegetable protein to prevent myself from muscle fatigue or worse, losing muscle mass.

I first discovered and experienced gardein™ at Chrissie Hynde's Akron restaurant, The VegiTerranean. Soon after, local markets began to carry gardein™ brand vegetable protein. I admit, I am normally not a "meat substitute" fan. The texture of meat protein was never something I was a big fan of, so I never saw the need to swap out vegetarian "meats" for the real deal, until gardein™.

What is gardein™? From their website: "gardein™ is a wholesome range of tasty plant-based foods with a meaty texture. it’s made from soy, wheat and pea proteins, vegetables and ancient grains (quinoa, amaranth, millet and kamut®). gardein™ is easy to digest and free of cholesterol, trans and saturated fats. the majority of gardein™ foods are a good source of fiber and low fat too. gardein™ is also animal and dairy free."

I have personally tried all of the following gardein™ products:

• Classic Style Buffalo Wings (frozen)
  
• Home Style Beefless Tips (frozen)
• Seven Grain Crispy Tenders (frozen)
• Lightly Seasoned Chik'n Scallopini (frozen)
• BBQ Pulled Shreds (fresh)
  
• BBQ Skewers (fresh)
• Seasoned Bites (fresh)

While I enjoy the fresh gardein™ products, there is something to be said for the new frozen varieties. The Buffalo Wings are super spicy, so be forewarned. The Crispy Tenders are the closest thing I have had to a Chicken Nugget in over 15 years. I admit, it creeps me out a little bit every time I eat one because the texture is just what I remember.

Not only are gardein™ products Vegan (no eggs, no dairy, no honey), they are low in fat and high in protein! Perfect for active vegetarians and vegans and it tastes good too! If you are local, Gardein products are available at Mustard Seed Market and Whole Foods stores. Or, visit The VegiTerranean for their all-vegan menu including gardein™ products!

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com