According to scientists who like to peek into the near future, the traditional Christmas feast is set to look a bit different soon. The team at the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has envisioned a Christmas dinner of tomorrow. The menu includes, among other things, pigs in blankets made with seaweed-infused meat, turkey with alternative proteins, dishes featuring pea cheese, and super potatoes.
Pigs in Blankets
This dish is a traditional favorite on British Christmas tables. Soon, the meat for it will likely come from animals fed with seaweed.
Meat from animals raised on aquatic plants enriched with iodine and selenium is said to be significantly more nutritious and beneficial, according to researchers.
Turkey
The recipe for the holiday centerpiece—turkey with various sides—could also use a rethink. Scientists believe that the main ingredient, turkey, could soon be grown in laboratory conditions.
This technological innovation will help reduce the demand for this bird, especially during the holiday season. It will also provide Christmas dinners with environmentally friendly, affordable, nutritious, and tasty alternative proteins. These are currently being actively developed by a team of researchers from the National Centre for Alternative Protein Innovation in Leeds, the Cell AgriTech Production Centre in Bath, and the Microbiology and Engineering Centre at UKRI, Imperial College.
Potato Dishes
The researchers also plan to create what they call super potatoes based on the latest advancements in engineering biology. Scientists are already developing improved potato varieties that are healthier and more resilient to damage. Additionally, this vegetable cooks significantly faster.
Pea Cheese
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed cheese from peas using advanced technologies. They have successfully transformed yellow British peas into an eco-friendly, plant-based cheese.
This alternative option has properties similar to dairy cheese but is free from high fat content. The result is a healthy and delicious vegan cheese that can be used to prepare festive treats.
Stella Pease, a senior manager at UKRI, noted, “Food lies at the heart of many cultures; it brings people together to share traditions.” And, of course, it gives us strength and supports our health.