Types, Sources, and Benefits of Proteins
At the heart of this month’s focus we delve into the world of proteins, exploring the benefits, sources, and a special spotlight on both plant-based and whole muscle meats.
Understanding Protein Basics
Protein plays a crucial role in our body’s ability to function. Unlike carbohydrates and fats, studies reveal that protein is the most filling of the three macronutrients. It is comprised of amino acids, the building blocks that are required for repairing and building muscles, bones, hormones, and antibodies that keep our defenses up against illnesses and infections.
Animal vs. Plant Proteins
Animal proteins are found in fish, eggs, meat, and dairy. These are considered “complete proteins” because they contain all 9 essential amino acids our bodies need to repair and rebuild. On the other hand, plant proteins are considered incomplete, but don’t write them off yet! Some plants, like quinoa, buckwheat, and soy are unique and are complete proteins. Even though plant proteins are not typically singularly “complete”, however, different plant proteins can be combined to achieve the essential amino acids that we all need.
The Power of Whole Muscle Meats
This February, we emphasize the importance of whole muscle meats, steering clear of processed meats. Processed meats, such as hot dogs and cured meats like salami, are known to be high in sodium and classified by the World Health Organization as potentially carcinogenic. Instead, we encourage you to try whole muscle meats such as chicken, salmon, grass-fed beef, and sea food, which we regularly offer within our menus.
Our Proteins are House-Crafted
Getting enough protein in our diet helps us avoid muscle loss, slow metabolism, fatigue, and low iron levels. When selecting items within our cafes, you can feel confident in your choices because the majority of our proteins are house-roasted, hand-formed, and house-smoked! Our Chefs craft recipes from scratch, so you’re not reliant on a processed, low-quality protein for your meal. This makes our protein options fresh, flavorful, and delicious to add to your favorite salads, entrees, or other composed dishes. These additions bring a burst of flavor and nutritional goodness, making it easy to enjoy the taste of healthy choices.
Grass-Fed Beef as a Premium Protein Source
This February, select Thomas Cuisine locations will enjoy even more access to premium proteins as we offer our newest offerings from Central Montana Beef, a unique, locally sourced beef raised on the protein-rich grasses of Montana. You can learn more about this unique partnership and why grass-fed beef is a superior product for your health and wellness by visiting our Central Montana Beef partnership page. Thomas Cuisine’s grass-fed future is bright, with plans to roll out this product nationwide for those we serve.
As we celebrate February, embrace the nourishing power of protein with the goodness of real, house-made offerings ranging from protein-topped salads, comforting entrees, sandwiches, sides, snacks, and soups knowing each dish is trustworthy, featuring Real ingredients that will nourish and support you all day long.
