Everything you need to know about plant-based eggs
Eggs - versatile, high in protein and an important ingredient in breakfast and baking - may not be for everyone. For vegans, people with egg allergies, or people who want to lower their cholesterol, it may make sense to switch to plant-based eggs.
With the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, more and more vegan egg alternatives are hitting the market that are meant to mimic the consistency and taste of conventional eggs. But are these plant-based alternatives also healthier and more environmentally friendly? Here's what you need to know about egg alternatives.
What are plant-based eggs made of?
Plant-based eggs come in liquid and powder form, and ingredients vary from brand to brand. Some eggs are made from organic soy milk powder, while others are made from potato starch. To mimic the soft texture of scrambled eggs, volume additives and emulsifiers may be used, and spices such as turmeric or nutritional yeast and black salt are added to achieve an egg-like flavor.
Use of vegetable-based eggs
The choice between liquid and powdered eggs depends on the intended use. Vegan liquid eggs are the best choice for breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs because the emulsifiers make it fluffy, and they're also great for recipes where eggs are the main ingredient, like omelets. For baking, however, a homemade or powdered version is better. Please note that when using vegan liquid eggs for baking, the water content of the recipe must be adjusted. Some powdered vegan eggs can be mixed with water and used as a breakfast substitute.
Make your own plant-based eggs
Need a quick egg alternative? With a few ingredients, it's a snap to make them yourself. One recommends using ground flaxseed or aquafaba - the liquid that leaked from a can of chickpeas. A mixture of one tablespoon of ground flaxseed and three tablespoons of water can replace one whole egg, and three tablespoons of aquafaba can be used to replace one egg white.
Are plant-based eggs healthy?
Although plant-based eggs have some nutritional benefits, there are some points to consider before making the switch. Unlike conventional eggs, which are made from whole eggs, plant-based eggs tend to be more processed and may contain stabilizers and additives. They also tend to contain less protein and more sodium than conventional eggs.
In conclusion, plant-based eggs can be a fantastic alternative for those who suffer from egg allergies or follow a vegan diet.
More information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure that the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
