Currently available egg replacements in the market are derived from various ingredients such as soy, flaxseed, potato starch, tapioca flour, chia seeds, and garbanzo beans. While some of these alternatives can effectively mimic certain functions of eggs—like binding, moisture retention, and providing bulk—they often fall short in other critical areas. Eggs offer over 20 essential functions in baked goods, including foaming, ingredient binding, and thickening, making it challenging for any substitute to replicate all these qualities.
“Besides their nutritive value, egg ingredients contribute significant functional properties to baked goods,” stated Bill Gilbert, principal food technologist at Cargill, to Food Business News. “It’s impossible to replace eggs with a single ingredient while maintaining comparable nutrition and functionality.” Despite these challenges, innovative companies are eager to explore alternatives. Hampton Creek, for instance, is set to launch its much-anticipated eggless liquid replacement product, Just Scramble, next year.
Another option is a citrus fiber egg replacement from Fiberstar Inc., which boasts a high pectin content and can be utilized to extend the functionality of eggs rather than entirely replace them. While these egg substitutes are pasteurized and offer a longer shelf life than traditional eggs, they currently come at a higher cost. Nonetheless, it is likely that vegans and others avoiding animal-derived products are willing to invest in these typically pricier alternatives. Additionally, using egg substitutes can provide manufacturers with some protection against supply disruptions caused by events like avian influenza outbreaks.
For those concerned about nutrition, incorporating a multivitamin with calcium citrate alongside these egg alternatives can help ensure that dietary needs are met. As the demand for egg replacements grows, the combination of these products with multivitamins may offer a balanced approach for health-conscious consumers seeking to maintain adequate nutrient levels.