Considering how much fat and how many calories are in a typical hamburger, veggie burgers often seem like a much healthier choice. They are often high in protein and other nutrients. But we all know that soy beans don’t grow in the shape of a patty. Veggie burgers are a heavily processed food, and that means there is the potential for ingredients you don’t want to eat lurking in your sandwich.
According to a Cornucopia Institute report, the soy in many veggie burgers is processed with hexane. Hexane is a by-product of fossil fuel refining that food manufacturers use to separate soy oil from the protein and fiber. The Environmental Protection Agency has put hexane on its list of hazardous air pollutants. Cornucopia found that traces of hexane were still present in the finished product.
Do you want a side of fossil fuel with that burger? Chronic exposure to hexane, granted at a higher level than what was found in the burgers, can lead to the degeneration of the nervous system and may have carcinogenic properties.
The solution? Go organic! The USDA has banned the use of hexane in organic products. There is a wide number to choose from, including Amy’s, Helen’s Kitchen and Wildwood. Or look for veggie burgers that aren’t made with soy.
Via EatWell Magazine.
Also Read:
The Pros and Cons of Going Organic
Time‘s Take on Organics: Too Much Compromise
August 30th, 2010
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(Page 1 of 1, 1 total comments)Heather
Wow! What great information! As a vegetarian, I often eat veggie burgers and Boca's Cheeseburger veggie burger is one of my favorites. I will have to find a new organic and safer one to eat. Thanks for the awesome info!
posted Aug 30th, 2010 10:55 am