Vegan Product Review: Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles

Morningstar Farms offers a great product line for vegetarians and vegans, or anyone who is looking to add non-meat protein sources to their meals. One of my favorite things about Morningstar Farms is that they have a great website with lots of information and tons of recipes. They even have a section with great ideas on how to transform savory down-home dishes into healthy, vegan delights.

I also love that they offer some products (like the Steak Strips or Grillers Recipe Crumbles) in both a regular version and a somewhat pricier version that is made with natural ingredients. The packaging looks the same except for the writing on the red strip across the bottom of the bag, so keep an eye out for this to ensure that you get the product you are looking for.

As for the Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles, I have used both the regular version and the version that is made with natural ingredients and have not noticed any significant difference in taste or texture.

I have used the Grillers Recipe Crumbles in chili, pasta sauce, tacos, taco salad and meatloaf and have always had consistent, successful results. It is easy to work with (even when making meatloaf) and has a great texture.

Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles is a sold protein choice for vegans and vegetarians, and with 80% less fat than regular ground beef, this product is also a great choice for flexitarians and meat eaters looking for non-meat protein sources to add to their meals.

Compared to Boca's Ground Crumbles, Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles have less protein, more calories and more fat; however they do have B vitamins that are lacking in the Boca product. I have used both brands many, many times and overall, I prefer the Boca Ground Crumbles over the Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles. (If you prefer products made with natural ingredients, Boca also offers their Ground Crumbles in the regular version or one that is made with only natural ingredients.)

So, Morningstar Farms Meal Starters Grillers Recipe Crumbles is not my favorite ground burger product, but it's a close second and I continue to use it interchangeably with Boca Ground Crumbles depending on availability or which one is on sale. Both are versatile products that are handy to have in the freezer for quick meal preparation. I prefer the taste of the Boca Ground Crumbles, but really the difference in taste, texture and usability is minimal between the two brands.

One thing to watch for when you are shopping for Morningstar Farms products - vegans beware, most of their products are vegetarian - not vegan - so make sure you check the back for the 100% Vegan logo.