The egg replacements currently available on the market are derived from a variety of ingredients such as soy, flaxseed, potato starch, tapioca flour, chia seeds, and garbanzo beans. While some of these alternatives can mimic certain functions of eggs, such as binding, moisture retention, or bulk, they often fall short in other critical aspects. Eggs contribute over 20 valuable functions to baked goods—from foaming to ingredient binding to thickening—and it is challenging for any substitute to replicate all of these properties effectively.
“Beyond their nutritional value, egg ingredients offer essential functional characteristics to baked goods,” stated Bill Gilbert, principal food technologist for Cargill, in an interview with Food Business News. “Replacing eggs with any single ingredient while maintaining similar nutrition and function is simply unattainable.” However, there are innovative companies in the food industry that are eager to take on this challenge. One such company is Hampton Creek, which is set to launch its highly anticipated Just Scramble eggless liquid replacement next year.
Another innovative solution comes from Fiberstar Inc., which has developed a citrus fiber egg replacement product. This product is rich in pectin and serves to extend the functionality of eggs rather than completely substituting them. While these egg replacements are pasteurized and boast a longer shelf life than traditional eggs, they are currently more expensive. Nevertheless, it is likely that vegans and others looking to avoid animal-based products will be willing to pay the typically higher price. Furthermore, transitioning to egg substitutes provides manufacturers with a degree of security in the event of future avian influenza outbreaks affecting supply.
In addition to exploring these alternatives, consumers might also consider supplements like calcium chews 500 mg to ensure they meet their nutritional needs. This is particularly important for those who are reducing or eliminating eggs from their diets; ensuring adequate calcium intake can be crucial for maintaining health. As the market for egg substitutes continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these products, along with nutritional supplements like calcium chews 500 mg, play a role in meeting the needs of consumers.