Minnesota's Alt-Meat Revolution

As the demand for plant-based alternatives to meat grows, so does the demand for new methods of farming and food production. In Dawson, MN, “alt-meat” is not new - soybean processing dates back to the '50s. Now, PURIS, one of the largest manufacturers of pea protein, has moved in to revolutionize the agricultural system. What impact will it have on the town's residents and surrounding communities?

As the demand for plant-based alternatives to meat grows, so does the demand for new methods of farming and food production. In Dawson, MN, “alt-meat” is not new - soybean processing dates back to the '50s. Now, PURIS, one of the largest manufacturers of pea protein, has moved in to revolutionize the agricultural system. What impact will it have on the town's residents and surrounding communities?

Why is the yellow split pea and its protein so small and mighty? Ask PURIS. The manufacturer behind pea protein powder discovered that its ingredient has many positives including being a complete source of protein, being allergen-free, and being vegan. Plant manager Matt Karels walks us, and host and producer Amanda Anderson, through the process and the diet upsides.

Fruits and vegetables? Yes. Plant-based foods? Maybe. Kelli Fernholz, a preschool teacher in Madison, WI who talks about nutrition in her class, shares why she prefers the former and not the latter. Even with all of the alt-meat choices available on grocery store shelves, the switch to a plant-based diet for most people isn't quite as easy a decision.

Although known as the founder of Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford was also a vegetarian. Working with soybeans, he and scientist Robert Boyer invented a plastic car but also advocated and invented plant-based foods and products that changed the landscape of American diets and lifestyles.

In the U.S., corn and soy are the top crop on farms because they are covered by federal insurance and therefore, protects farmers from a bad harvest. This leaves them little to no choice to grow other agricultural products needed in the country unless they are willing to financially bet on another crop like peas.

At The Rusty Duck Bar & Grill in Dawson, MN - the home of PURIS which processes yellow pea protein, they cater to hamburger lovers of both the meat and veggie kind. Co-owner Tom Beals and Mayor Randy Tensen are put to the test by host Amanda Anderson to see if these plant-based rookies can tell the difference between the two.