With egg prices remaining unpredictable, consumers and home bakers are often looking for cost-effective alternatives. A food technology company is now introducing a new product aimed at addressing this issue, offering a plant-based substitute that it claims can reduce baking costs.
A New Solution for Rising Grocery Costs
The egg market has been marked by significant price swings in recent years, often influenced by factors like avian flu outbreaks and supply chain disruptions. In response to this volatility, the company Meala has launched an egg replacer derived from pea protein called Groundbaker. While not currently on the market, Meala is currently in talks with distributors.
The product is designed as a single-ingredient, one-to-one substitute for eggs in baked goods. According to the company’s announcement, this allows consumers to directly swap eggs in recipes without complex conversions, potentially stabilizing grocery expenses. Meala’s straightforward approach is intended to make the transition from traditional eggs seamless for home bakers.
Performance in the Kitchen
In a recent announcement, Meala stated that its pea protein powder is formulated to mimic the primary functions of eggs in baking, such as binding, leavening, and providing moisture. This development is part of a growing trend toward creating functional, plant-based ingredients that don’t require a long list of additives.
The company emphasized that its single-ingredient approach removes the need for complex blends of stabilizers and gums often found in other egg replacers, appealing to consumers seeking cleaner food labels. Meala claims the replacer achieves the expected texture and crumb in items like muffins, cookies, and brownies without introducing off-flavors. An additional benefit cited by them is the potential for a longer shelf life in finished baked goods.
Nutritional Profile and Broader Market Impact
The product also offers several nutritional advantages. Being derived from pea protein, it is free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and eggs, making it a suitable option for individuals with dietary restrictions. The pea protein base also adds a nutritional component to baked goods.
While the product is being positioned for home bakers, its potential impact on the industrial food sector is also significant. Large-scale bakeries and food manufacturers are continually seeking ways to streamline production and insulate themselves from commodity price fluctuations, making a functional, cost-effective egg substitute a valuable asset.
Meala is positioning its new product as a multifaceted solution for both home and commercial kitchens, as detailed in their press release on
