The Food That Built America Season 3 Episode 9 Beyond the Burger

The Food That Built America, season 3 episode 9, titled "Beyond the Burger," explores the history and impact of the plant-based meat alternative industry. The episode highlights the rise of companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat, and how they are changing the way we think about meat consumption.

The episode delves into the origins of the plant-based meat industry, which can be traced back to the 13th century, when Chinese chefs created mock meats made from wheat gluten and soy. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that the idea of plant-based meat alternatives began to gain widespread attention in the United States.

The episode features interviews with key players in the plant-based meat industry, including Ethan Brown, the CEO of Beyond Meat, and Dr. Patrick Brown, the founder of Impossible Foods. They discuss the science behind their products and how they are trying to create meat alternatives that are as close to the real thing as possible.

The episode also explores the environmental impact of meat production and how plant-based meat alternatives could help reduce the carbon footprint of the food industry. It looks at the challenges that plant-based meat companies face in terms of cost and distribution, and how they are overcoming these obstacles to reach a wider audience.

One of the highlights of the episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the development of the Impossible Burger, which took five years to create. Viewers will learn about the ingredients that go into the burger, how it is cooked, and why it has become such a popular alternative to traditional beef burgers.

Throughout the episode, viewers will see how the plant-based meat industry is disrupting the food industry and challenging traditional notions of what meat should look and taste like. They will also learn about the cultural and social factors that are driving the popularity of plant-based meat alternatives, and how these products are becoming more mainstream.

Overall, "Beyond the Burger" is a fascinating look at the plant-based meat industry and how it is changing the food landscape in America and beyond. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of food and sustainability.