Burger King

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Burger King BK ® Soy Veggie Patty garners the lowest possible endorsement due to a range of concerns regarding its ingredients and production methods. This veggie burger is not organic and includes genetically modified organisms (GMOs), factors which detract significantly from its overall health score. The presence of added sugar further reduces its suitability for those seeking cleaner food options.

Moreover, the inclusion of vaguely defined “flavour” ingredients raises red flags, as these may encompass a variety of chemical additives that could have undesirable health effects. The product also contains hydrogenated palm kernel oil; while it is trans fat-free, palm oil production is often associated with environmental damage and may be considered a less sustainable choice. Additionally, palm oil’s health implications are debated among nutrition experts.

The product’s base is formed from soy protein and water, with cellulose gum and modified wheat gluten contributing to its texture. While soy and wheat proteins are common meat substitutes, the non-specific nature of “hydrolyzed soy, wheat, and corn protein” in the ingredients could indicate further processing that some consumers prefer to avoid. Onion, sugar, spices, malt, garlic, and beet powder are also included, presumably to enhance taste and appearance.

The BK Soy Veggie Patty fails to meet the stringent criteria set for cleaner, healthier food options. Its reliance on non-organic ingredients, GMOs, added sugars, and potentially harmful additives positions it as a product that consumers, particularly those prioritizing health and sustainability, may opt to bypass. This assessment, grounded in the product’s ingredient list, underscores the importance of transparency and health-conscious choices in the food industry, especially for plant-based alternatives that are often assumed to be inherently healthier.