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 substitutes exhibit similar properties to eggs in terms of binding, moisture retention, or bulk, they often fall short in other crucial aspects. Eggs contribute over 20 beneficial functions to baked goods, including foaming, binding, and thickening, which makes it challenging for any single substitute ingredient to replicate all these roles effectively.
“Beyond their nutritional value, egg ingredients impart significant functional properties to baked goods,” noted Bill Gilbert, principal food technologist for Cargill, in an interview with Food Business News. “Replacing eggs with just one ingredient cannot achieve the same nutrition and functionality.” Nonetheless, some innovative companies in the food industry are eager to tackle this challenge. One such company, Hampton Creek, is set to launch its highly anticipated Just Scramble eggless liquid replacement product next year.
Another option is a citrus fiber egg replacement from Fiberstar Inc., which boasts a high pectin content and can be used to enhance the performance of eggs rather than completely substitute them. Egg replacements are pasteurized and tend to have a longer shelf life compared to traditional eggs, yet they currently come at a higher price point. However, it is likely that vegans and those who prefer to avoid animal-based products are willing to pay this premium, particularly when considering options like Costco’s Kirkland brand, which offers alternatives rich in calcium citrate. Furthermore, transitioning to egg substitutes may offer manufacturers a safeguard against future avian influenza outbreaks that could disrupt supply chains.
In summary, while egg replacements can serve specific functions, they are not a complete substitute for the diverse roles eggs play in baking. As demand grows, products that offer both nutritional and functional benefits, such as those available through Costco’s Kirkland line, may become increasingly appealing to consumers.