A new meat-free protein may prove to be the perfect solution for vegans. A high-protein flour made from sunflowers has been developed by a collaboration between research teams.

Making the flour

Scientists in Germany and Brazil are behind the possible development of a new plant-based meat, made from flour derived from sunflowers. First, the oil was extracted from the seeds, then the husk and phenolic compounds were removed, resulting in a digestible and versatile flour.

Two versions were created, one made with roasted sunflower seeds and another that was enhanced with textured sunflower protein. In both cases, the flour was further enhanced with spices, oils, and tomato powder.

The Winning Formula

The researchers made patties from both mixtures and then compared them for consistency, taste, and nutritional value. The version with textured sunflower protein proved superior, offering higher dosages of protein, magnesium, iron, manganese, and zinc, as well as having a firmer texture. The mixture also had a good range of amino acids.

The Future of Sunflower Protein

For now, this idea is very much in development, but could be a protein option for vegans in the future. As well as protein, it’s important that vegans ensure they are getting other nutrients that their diet may lack, like B12 and Omega 3 vegan supplements, both available from sellers such as vitortho.co.uk/supplements/categories/a-z-all-supplements/vegan-omega-3/.

Could a sunflower-based meat-free protein be the answer for vegans? With high levels of protein and other minerals, a good texture and taste, we may well be seeing sunflower-based proteins on our shelves in the future.

Building muscle on a plant-based diet

New plant proteins matter because many people still believe vegans struggle to build muscle. That belief does not hold up. The biggest misconception is that protein comes mainly from meat. Bodybuilders need less protein than many assume, and some vegan products, such as plant-based burgers, contain more protein than their meat equivalents.

Vitamins are another common worry, particularly B12 and D, yet meat eaters are just as likely to be deficient in these. Vegans can get them from mushrooms, fortified cereals and plant-based milks. Calories, essential for building muscle, are easy to find too: nuts, seeds and bananas are calorie-dense and simple to eat as snacks, and many dietitians recommend several small meals through the day.

A well-planned vegan diet can provide everything needed, but supplements are an option. Vegan bodybuilders are far more common than they once were, and the fitness industry now offers a wide range of plant-based protein powders and snacks, so the idea that vegans cannot build muscle is outdated.