These are the findings of a paper1 published in the December issue of Nutrition Bulletin, the journal of the British Nutrition Foundation, and could prove valuable to all caterers looking to serve healthy dishes to their customers.
The paper's authors reviewed* published data investigating the health benefits of the fungi-based protein, called mycoprotein - the unique ingredient in all Quorn products. The findings highlighted that mycoprotein has modest but meaningful cholesterol-lowering properties and might help to reduce blood glucose and insulin levels to the normal range. Mycoprotein might also prolong fullness after a meal, potentially helping people to manage their weight.
The state of the nation's health and diet is permanently in the news and is a topic that is not likely to go away anytime soon. Pressure is now on all caterers - from workplace and schools through to pubs and restaurants - to offer customers genuine healthier options when eating out of home. Introducing Quorn dishes to the menu could help caterers to achieve this objective, without compromising on taste.
Quorn products available for foodservice - including mince, pieces, fillets, Swedish-style balls, sausages and burgers - lend themselves exceptionally well as the protein choice for a wide variety of dishes, from popular and traditional fare through to ethnic and contemporary recipes. Quorn products are so versatile and adaptable that they work well with an array of different culinary styles and flavours, and when used in place of traditional meat proteins can create dishes that boast the same great taste with improved health credentials. Quorn products also offer the added benefit of accurate portion control, as they do not shrink when cooked and can be cooked from frozen.
Mycoprotein, the unique ingredient in all Quorn products, is an edible fungi and a relative of the mushroom family. It provides a good source of protein, is low in fat, low in cholesterol and contains no additives or artificial colours. It is also a good source of dietary fibre and essential vitamins and minerals to aid the development of healthy bones, joints, blood and the digestive system.
