Best Healthy Plant-Based Foods

 

11. Best healthy plant-based hot dog: Very Good Butchers Very Good Dog

PER 1 HOT DOG: 170 calories, 8 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 580 mg sodium, 9 g carbs (2 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 18 g protein

The Very Good Butchers have tons of alternative meat options. This new one is made with navy beans, onions, wheat, and spices. The company says it “delivers that summertime taste with none of the guilt.”

The expert’s take: “This is the best plant-based dog of the options here as it has less sodium than its competitors, and like its peers, it’s low in saturated fat. Since it has navy beans, it also provides fiber,” says Upton.

Our tasting notes: “When tasting all the winners in the plant-based categories, this one stood out the most. With and without ketchup, it tastes like a hot dog straight from the grill. I have eaten this product multiple times since with roasted vegetables, a salad, and on its own. The texture isn’t 100% on the money, but as a vegetarian, I didn’t mind that,” says McDonald.

Daiya

Daiya is the most popular vegan cheese among our grantees. It comes pre-shredded and is available in three flavors: cheddar, mozzarella, and pepperjack. Daiya is best served hot, and when melted, it stretches! This cheese is a great option for people with food allergies because it is gluten-, soy-, and nut-free, as well as dairy-free like all vegan cheeses. Daiya also makes wedges, slices, and cream cheese.