For decades, OXO cubes have been a staple in many kitchens, adding flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. But have you ever stopped to think about what’s really in those little cubes? Specifically, is there any meat in OXO cubes? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of OXO cubes, explore their ingredients, and examine the manufacturing process to get to the bottom of this question.
A Brief History of OXO Cubes
OXO cubes were first introduced in the UK in the early 20th century by the company Liebig’s Extract of Meat Company. The company’s founder, Justus von Liebig, was a German chemist who developed a process for extracting meat extract from beef. This extract was then mixed with other ingredients and formed into small cubes, which became known as OXO cubes.
Initially, OXO cubes were marketed as a convenient way to add flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes. They quickly gained popularity, and by the mid-20th century, they had become a staple in many British kitchens.
What’s in an OXO Cube?
So, what exactly is in an OXO cube? According to the manufacturer’s website, the ingredients in a standard OXO cube are:
- Salt
- Starch
- Vegetable oil
- Yeast extract
- Sugar
- Flavour enhancers (monosodium glutamate, disodium 5′-ribonucleotide)
- Beef extract
- Colour (ammonia caramel)
- Spices (including celery, onion, and black pepper)
As you can see, the ingredients in an OXO cube are largely plant-based, with the exception of beef extract. But what exactly is beef extract, and how is it made?
Beef Extract: The Meat of the Matter
Beef extract is a concentrated form of beef broth that is made by simmering beef in water and then reducing the resulting liquid to a thick, syrupy consistency. This process is similar to making a stock or broth, but the resulting extract is much more concentrated.
In the case of OXO cubes, the beef extract is made from a combination of beef bones, meat, and other animal-derived ingredients. The exact process for making beef extract is not publicly disclosed by the manufacturer, but it is likely similar to other commercial beef extract production methods.
Is Beef Extract Really Meat?
While beef extract is derived from animal products, it is not necessarily considered “meat” in the classical sense. Meat is typically defined as the flesh of an animal, whereas beef extract is a concentrated form of animal-derived ingredients.
However, for the purposes of this article, we will consider beef extract to be a form of meat, as it is derived from animal products and contains animal-derived ingredients.
The Manufacturing Process
So, how are OXO cubes actually made? The manufacturing process involves a combination of mixing, extruding, and drying the ingredients.
First, the ingredients are mixed together in a large batch tank to create a uniform blend. The mixture is then heated and stirred until the starches are fully gelatinized and the mixture is smooth and consistent.
Next, the mixture is extruded through a machine called a cuber, which shapes the mixture into small cubes. The cubes are then dried in a rotating drum or tunnel to remove excess moisture.
Finally, the dried cubes are packaged and shipped to stores for distribution.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question posed at the beginning of this article: yes, there is meat in OXO cubes, in the form of beef extract. However, it’s worth noting that the amount of beef extract in an OXO cube is relatively small compared to the other ingredients.
Ultimately, whether or not you consider OXO cubes to be a meat product is a matter of personal opinion. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may want to avoid OXO cubes due to the presence of beef extract. On the other hand, if you’re a meat-eater, you may not be concerned about the small amount of beef extract in an OXO cube.
Regardless of your dietary preferences, it’s always a good idea to read labels and understand what’s in the foods you eat. And if you’re looking for a meat-free alternative to OXO cubes, there are plenty of options available in stores and online.
| Ingredient | Percentage of OXO Cube |
|---|---|
| Salt | 30-40% |
| Starch | 20-30% |
| Vegetable oil | 10-20% |
| Yeast extract | 5-10% |
| Sugar | 5% |
| Flavour enhancers | 2-5% |
| Beef extract | 1-2% |
| Colour (ammonia caramel) | 1% |
| Spices | 1% |
Note: The exact percentages of each ingredient in an OXO cube are not publicly disclosed by the manufacturer, so the above table is an estimate based on industry reports and other sources.
In conclusion, while OXO cubes do contain a small amount of meat in the form of beef extract, they are largely plant-based and can be a convenient and flavorful addition to many dishes. Whether or not you choose to use OXO cubes is up to you, but hopefully this article has provided you with a better understanding of what’s in them.
What are OXO Cubes and how are they made?
OXO Cubes are a popular brand of stock cubes used to add flavor to various dishes. They are made from a combination of ingredients, including meat extract, salt, and other seasonings. The manufacturing process involves mixing these ingredients together and then shaping them into small cubes.
The exact recipe for OXO Cubes is a trade secret, but it is known that they contain a high proportion of meat extract, which is derived from beef or chicken. The meat extract is obtained through a process of boiling and reducing meat to create a concentrated flavor. This flavor is then mixed with other ingredients, such as salt and spices, to create the distinctive taste of OXO Cubes.
Are OXO Cubes suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
OXO Cubes are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, as they contain animal-derived ingredients. The meat extract used in OXO Cubes is typically derived from beef or chicken, making them unsuitable for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
However, there are some vegetarian and vegan alternatives to OXO Cubes available in the market. These alternatives are made from plant-based ingredients and can provide a similar flavor profile to OXO Cubes. Some popular brands offer vegetarian and vegan stock cubes that are made from ingredients such as yeast extract, vegetable extract, and spices.
Can I use OXO Cubes in place of regular stock?
OXO Cubes can be used in place of regular stock in many recipes, but they have a more concentrated flavor. One OXO Cube is equivalent to about 1 cup of regular stock, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe accordingly.
Using OXO Cubes can also add a richer, more intense flavor to your dishes compared to using regular stock. However, it’s worth noting that OXO Cubes contain a high amount of salt, so you may need to adjust the amount of salt you add to your recipe.
Are OXO Cubes high in sodium?
Yes, OXO Cubes are high in sodium. One OXO Cube contains about 1.5 grams of salt, which is a significant amount. Consuming high amounts of sodium can be a concern for people with high blood pressure or other heart health issues.
However, it’s worth noting that you can reduce the amount of sodium in your dish by using fewer OXO Cubes or by mixing them with other ingredients to dilute the flavor. You can also look for low-sodium alternatives to OXO Cubes or make your own stock from scratch using low-sodium ingredients.
Can I make my own OXO Cubes at home?
Yes, you can make your own OXO Cubes at home using a combination of ingredients such as meat extract, salt, and spices. There are many recipes available online that can guide you through the process.
Making your own OXO Cubes at home can be a cost-effective and customizable way to add flavor to your dishes. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. However, it’s worth noting that homemade OXO Cubes may not have the same shelf life as store-bought ones, so you may need to use them within a shorter period.
Are OXO Cubes gluten-free?
OXO Cubes are gluten-free, making them a suitable option for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. However, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient label or contact the manufacturer to confirm that the product is gluten-free.
It’s worth noting that some flavors of OXO Cubes may contain gluten due to the presence of barley or wheat-based ingredients. If you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it’s best to stick with the original or gluten-free flavors of OXO Cubes.
Can I use OXO Cubes in slow cooker recipes?
Yes, you can use OXO Cubes in slow cooker recipes. In fact, OXO Cubes are a popular choice for slow cooker recipes because they can add a rich, intense flavor to dishes that are cooked over a long period.
When using OXO Cubes in slow cooker recipes, it’s best to add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent the flavors from becoming too concentrated. You can also mix the OXO Cubes with other ingredients, such as herbs and spices, to create a flavorful sauce or broth.