The Impossible Whopper: Does it Pass the Test?

At Cavemen Radio Show we’re always trying new things. Most of the time it’s a new television show, a new movie, or trash-talking the latest sports fiascos. Occasionally we like to dabble into the world of foods and beverage and try the things most don’t want to waste their money on. We’ll be the guinea pigs for all your hard earned cash so you don’t have to.

The latest in our hunt for new foods is the Impossible Whopper from Burger King. The self proclaimed “King of Burgers” has been slinging burgers since 1954 in Miami FL. Depending on who you ask it can be traced back to Jacksonville, FL before going world-wide. Their signature burger that has been a staple of the fast food chain is the Whopper.

Now that a younger generation of consumers have shifted to a more healthier choice and cleaner planet, the shift to a more plant based diet is coming more of a regular occurrence than just a passing fad. With the shift in buying power to a younger consumer, fast food companies will have to adapt, so Burger King is trying their hand with the Impossible Whopper.

Our Impossible™ WHOPPER® Sandwich features a savory flame-grilled patty made from plants topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, ketchup, crunchy pickles, and sliced white onions on a soft sesame seed bun. 100% WHOPPER®, 0% Beef.**

** From BurgerKing.com

Claiming to taste just like a regular Whopper we decided to put it to the test. Burger King even promotes their own taste test with the Impossible Whopper. You can buy a regular Whopper and its Impossible counter part for $7 (market price may vary). Claiming to taste just like beef is the plant-based Whopper’s claim to fame and that’s the selling point so does it? We gave it a shot.

The Verdict:

No, the Impossible Whopper isn’t exactly like the original Whopper, but it’s about as close as it comes. The hardest part about eating the Impossible Whopper is Burger King’s cooking method.

I’ve bought the Impossible Burger meat in store and it has a lot more flavor than the ready to eat one at BK. The flame-boiled plant-based beef doesn’t maintain the flavor of a regular patty. The patty itself is thin and buried beneath the flavor of the toppings that come on it. Either the grill needs to be sped up or the temp turned down as the Impossible Whopper loses flavor due to drying out.

Will the Impossible Whopper be a permanent replacement if you’re not on a plant-based diet? No, but anyone who is making the switch but wants the guilty pleasure of the occasional fast food indulgence than this should at least feed that craving. Overall the sandwich isn’t terrible, but at the end of the day it won’t convince a hardcore meat eater to make the switch. We give it a 3 out of 5.