April is Soy Foods Month

April is National Soy Foods Month, which can tie in perfectly with eco-friendly living by reducing our consumption of meat products and eating a more plant based diet. One way in reducing meat and dairy from our diets is to replace those foods with Soy based products. There are so many Soy based vegetarian options out there now it’s hard not to be aware of them.

Soymilk - one of the alternatives to cows milk for those allergic to dairy soymilk is a great alternative. Available in both refrigerated and long life grocery section of your local supermarket. Soymilk comes in many different varieties including: unsweetened, sweetened, vanilla, chocolate and more! There are even soy coffee creamers available! Soymilk is also great as a substitute for dairy milk in cooking.

Soy Yogurts - made from soy these yogurts are a great alternative to dairy and has more of a creamy dessert texture and flavor than traditional yogurt. Still a great alternative and worth trying. Finding natural flavorless soy yogurt is pretty hard to find, mostly the varieties are fruit flavored.

Soy “Meats” – there are many soy ‘meats’ available now in supermarkets nationwide, and it seems more and more available every year.  From mock chick’n, to beefless beef the varieties are endless and growing daily. From plain “dress it yourself” cutlets to pre-prepared meals containing the protein, carbs and veggies, there is something for any eco-friendly consumer!

Soy beans – soy beans can sometimes be found called edamame, available pre-seasoned and boiled or steamed in the pod. Along with eating the beans whole they can be served as a dip. So many ways to eat soy!

Soy protein powders/bars - as the vegetarian movement grows and grows more manufacturers are offering soy alternatives, and nowhere is this more noticeable than in the fitness/body building diet industry. Previously relying on whey (dairy) there are now Soy protein powders and Soy protein bars available for as post workout meals or as meal replacements to aid weight loss.

For April why not try some of the Soy alternatives and put more vegetarian options on your families dinner table!

dalgal | My Bio & Articles