Interested in trying our FREE Healthy Diet Plan? This easy to follow nutritionist-created plan will inspire you to cook and eat more healthily. Nourish yourself with seven days of meals, snacks and treats.
Advertisem*nt
What is Quorn?
Created in 1983, Quorn is the trademarked name given to a meat substitute called mycoprotein. This plant-based protein is derived from a natural microfungus called Fusarium Venenatum. The fungus is fermented in a similar way to beer or yogurt to promote the growth of the mycoprotein. Quorn is available in a variety of products, including mince, sausages and nuggets.
Health benefits of Quorn may include:
- A ‘complete’ protein
- May increase fullness
- May balance cholesterol levels
- Versatile meat alternative
- Good source of fibre
Next, read ‘Is vegan meat healthy?’ to learn more about the pros and cons of popular alternatives and find out if a vegan diet is good for you. Check out some of our delicious Quorn alternative recipes, from vegetarian bolognese to Moroccan-spiced mince couscous.
Nutritional profile of Quorn
A 75g portion (as purchased) provides:
- 55 kcals / 230 kj
- 10.5g protein
- 1.1g fat
- 0.8g carbohydrates
- 6.2g fibre
- 178mg phosphorus
- 90mg potassium
- 5.25mg zinc
- 16mcg folate
Figures will vary depending on the product selected.
More like this
Top 5 health benefits of Quorn
1. A complete protein
Quorn is a ‘complete’ protein, supplying all nine essential amino acids required by adults.
2. May increase fullness
A study in 2016 reported that Quorn increased satiety, thereby reducing energy intake and improving blood sugar regulation in those who were overweight. That said, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
3. May balance cholesterol levels
A small but interesting eight-week trial carried out across two groups of people with high cholesterol levels reported positive findings. One group were fed cookies containing Quorn and the control group ate cookies without Quorn. By the end of the eight weeks, those who had consumed the cookies containing Quorn had reduced total and low-density lipoprotein (often referred to as ‘bad’) cholesterol levels. However, there have been no further published studies on this topic, so it’s not possible to draw firm conclusions about the effect of consuming Quorn for this specific purpose.
4. A versatile meat alternative
Quorn is a versatile replacement to meat, and available in a variety of forms including mince, cutlets, nuggets and burger-style patties. These meat-free products are considered helpful in response to the growing global need for plant-based protein.
5. Good source of fibre
Depending on the product, the fibre content is likely to range from around 5g-10g per 100g, suggesting Quorn is a useful source of fibre.
Is Quorn safe for everyone?
Although generally recognised as safe for most people, some consumers have reported adverse reactions after consuming Quorn. These reactions include gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, or allergic reactions including urticaria (hives) and anaphylaxis. According to the official Quorn website, true allergy reactions remain exceptionally low, and Quorn is not classed as an allergen in the UK, but is recognised as having the potential to cause an allergic reaction.
Those who already have a sensitivity to fungi, such as mushrooms, may find they are sensitive to Quorn and should exercise caution. Speak to your GP if you are concerned.
Quorn products are not always completely plant-based and may contain other allergens, such as egg, milk and gluten; these will be marked on labels. Additional ingredients will collectively alter the nutritional value and allergen profile of the product, so always check labels to ensure the product is appropriate for your needs.
Visit the NHS website to read more about allergies.
Overall, is Quorn healthy?
Despite some conflicting research, the UK Food Standards Agency has determined Quorn to be a healthy meat alternative. However, it’s important to remember Quorn is a processed food, so should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced and varied diet. Those with concerns might prefer other substitutes like tofu, tempeh or seitan.
Enjoyed this? Read more about vegetarian diets:
The best sources of protein for vegetarians
The 10 best vegan protein sources
Is vegan ‘meat’ healthy?
How to eat a balanced vegetarian diet
A balanced diet for vegans
Get inspired with these vegetarian recipes:
Healthy vegetarian recipe collection
This article was reviewed on 24 April 2024 by Kerry Torrens.
Nicola Shubrook is a nutritional therapist and works with both private clients and the corporate sector. She is an accredited member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). Find out more at urbanwellness.co.uk.
Advertisem*nt
All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
