Move Over, Burgers, These 5 Bean Companies Are Rethinking Sustainable Protein

They don’t exactly work on the grill, but anything else meat can do — vegan meat included — beans can do healthier, cheaper, and oftentimes, tastier, as these five brands prove.

Beans have long been a staple in diets worldwide, offering a budget-friendly and versatile source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The benefits of beans run the gamut from heart health to healthy soil.

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal choice for vegetarians, vegans, and those looking to reduce their meat consumption. A single serving of beans can provide around 15 percent of the recommended daily protein intake.

Where they differ from animal meat though, is their fiber content. While meat contains no fiber, beans are packed with both soluble and insoluble fiber, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation. A fiber-rich diet has also been linked to lower cholesterol levels, reduced risk of heart disease, and better blood sugar control. Regular consumption of beans has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. This is partly due to their high fiber content, but beans are also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may further contribute to heart health.

And when it comes to sustainability, beans and legumes can’t be beat; they require less water and land to grow compared to animal-based protein sources. Beans can also fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

5 bean companies to plate up

With the growing popularity of plant-based diets and a renewed focus on sustainability, beans are now more relevant than ever. These five innovative bean-based brands are reimagining the humble legume in delicious and creative ways.

1. Bold Bean Co.

Bold Bean Co. is on a mission to reinvent classic bean-based dishes with a modern twist. Its range of products includes a variety of bean-based dips, meal kits, and snacks, all of which are made with plant-based ingredients. Bold Bean Co. is committed to using sustainably sourced beans and packaging, ensuring that their products are not only delicious but also good for the planet. Give the Spicy Black Bean Dip or Lentil & Chickpea Meal Kit a try for a tasty and nutritious meal.

2. Heyday Canning Co.

Heyday Canning Co. brings a fresh perspective to the age-old practice of canning, focusing on high-quality, sustainably sourced beans, vegetables, and sauces. The company’s carefully curated range of canned beans, including Garbanzo Beans, Black Beans, and Navy Beans, are all slow-cooked and seasoned for easy ready-to-serve meals. Heyday Canning Co. is committed to working with farmers who prioritize sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices, so you can feel good about supporting a brand that’s passionate about the environment and social responsibility.

3. Cool Beans

Cool Beans is a brand that’s all about showcasing the versatility and deliciousness of beans. It offers a range of frozen plant-based wraps, featuring globally inspired flavors and wholesome, nutritious ingredients. From the Spicy Chipotle Bean Wrap to the Moroccan Gold Bean Wrap, each wrap is packed with beans, whole grains, and vegetables, making them a convenient and healthy meal option for those on the go.

4. Better Bean Co.

Better Bean Co. is focused on creating tasty and healthy bean-based products that are ready to eat with a selection of bean dips, spreads, and sides made with fresh, minimally processed ingredients, and are free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Better Bean Co.’s products, such as the Uncanny Refried Black Beans and Cuban Black Beans, are perfect for adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to your favorite dishes.

5. Bean Story

Bean Story is a brand that celebrates the humble bean and its potential to nourish and sustain people and the planet, with a range of organic, ready-to-eat beans in convenient, shelf-stable pouches. Bean Story’s beans are sourced from organic farmers and cooked with natural ingredients, making them a healthy and environmentally friendly choice. The Organic Chickpeas, Black Beans, and Red Kidney Beans are great for salads, stews, and more, adding a nutritious and tasty touch to your meals.