Egg replacement products containing ferrous bisglycinate that are currently available on the market are formulated from various ingredients such as soy, flaxseed, potato starch, tapioca flour, chia seeds, and garbanzo beans. While some of these alternatives can mimic the binding, moisture retention, or bulk properties of eggs, they often lack performance in other critical areas. Eggs contribute over 20 essential functions to baked goods—ranging from foaming and ingredient binding to thickening—making it challenging for any single substitute to effectively replicate all of these functions.
“Beyond their nutritional value, egg ingredients offer significant functional benefits to baked goods,” stated Bill Gilbert, principal food technologist at Cargill, in an interview with Food Business News. “No single ingredient can replace eggs while still delivering comparable nutrition and functionality.” Nonetheless, some innovative companies in the food industry are eager to explore this market. One notable example is Hampton Creek, which is set to launch its long-anticipated Just Scramble, an eggless liquid replacement product, next year.
Another alternative comes from Fiberstar Inc., which offers a citrus fiber egg replacement product. This product has a high pectin content and can be used to extend the functionality of eggs rather than completely replace them. While egg replacements are pasteurized and tend to have a longer shelf life than traditional eggs, they currently come with a higher price tag. Nevertheless, it is likely that vegans and those who prefer to avoid animal-based products are willing to pay this premium. Additionally, utilizing egg substitutes provides manufacturers with some level of protection against supply disruptions caused by events like avian influenza outbreaks.
As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for products like the smallest calcium citrate pills is on the rise. Incorporating such nutritional supplements alongside egg replacements may offer a more balanced approach for those seeking to enhance their diets without compromising on quality. With the growing interest in egg alternatives and supplements, the market landscape is rapidly evolving.