The rise of plant-based diets has led to a surge in innovative food products, and one of the most notable examples is JUST Egg. This vegan egg substitute has taken the world by storm, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. But have you ever wondered how JUST Egg is made and what makes it a game-changer in the vegan world? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of JUST Egg and explore its ingredients, production process, and the science behind its unique properties.
What is JUST Egg?
JUST Egg is a plant-based egg substitute made from mung bean protein, a type of legume that’s commonly used in Asian cuisine. The product is designed to mimic the taste, texture, and versatility of traditional eggs, making it an ideal option for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians. JUST Egg is available in various forms, including a liquid egg substitute, a folded egg product, and a scrambled egg mix.
The Story Behind JUST Egg
JUST Egg is the brainchild of Josh Tetrick, the CEO of Eat Just, a company that’s dedicated to creating sustainable and humane food products. Tetrick, a vegan himself, was inspired to create a plant-based egg substitute after learning about the environmental and animal welfare impacts of the egg industry. He teamed up with a group of scientists and chefs to develop a product that would not only taste like eggs but also have a similar texture and functionality.
How is JUST Egg Made?
The production process of JUST Egg involves several stages, from sourcing the mung beans to creating the final product. Here’s an overview of how it’s made:
Step 1: Sourcing the Mung Beans
Eat Just sources its mung beans from various countries, including the United States, China, and India. The company works closely with farmers to ensure that the beans are grown sustainably and with minimal environmental impact.
Step 2: Protein Extraction
The mung beans are then processed to extract the protein, which is the main ingredient in JUST Egg. The protein is extracted using a combination of mechanical and enzymatic processes, resulting in a highly concentrated protein powder.
Step 3: Blending with Other Ingredients
The protein powder is then blended with other ingredients, including water, salt, and natural flavorings. The exact formulation of JUST Egg is a trade secret, but the company claims that it uses a proprietary blend of ingredients to create the product’s unique taste and texture.
Step 4: Pasteurization and Packaging
The final step involves pasteurizing the mixture to kill off any bacteria and extending its shelf life. The product is then packaged in various formats, including bottles, cartons, and pouches.
The Science Behind JUST Egg
So, what makes JUST Egg so special? The answer lies in its unique protein structure, which is designed to mimic the properties of egg protein. Here are some key factors that contribute to JUST Egg’s success:
Protein Structure
Mung bean protein has a unique structure that allows it to form a network of protein strands, similar to egg protein. This structure gives JUST Egg its characteristic texture and functionality, making it ideal for cooking and baking.
Emulsification Properties
JUST Egg has excellent emulsification properties, which means it can mix with other ingredients to create a stable and consistent texture. This property makes it ideal for applications like mayonnaise, sauces, and dressings.
Heat Stability
JUST Egg is heat-stable, meaning it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or becoming too runny. This property makes it ideal for cooking and baking applications.
Benefits of JUST Egg
JUST Egg offers several benefits over traditional eggs, including:
Environmental Benefits
Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. JUST Egg, on the other hand, has a much lower environmental impact, making it a more sustainable option for consumers.
Animal Welfare Benefits
The egg industry has faced criticism for its treatment of chickens, including overcrowding, beak trimming, and slaughter. JUST Egg eliminates the need for animal exploitation, making it a more humane option for consumers.
Health Benefits
JUST Egg is lower in cholesterol and saturated fat compared to traditional eggs, making it a healthier option for consumers. It’s also free from common allergens like dairy and gluten.
Conclusion
JUST Egg is a game-changer in the vegan world, offering a plant-based egg substitute that’s not only delicious but also sustainable and humane. Its unique protein structure, emulsification properties, and heat stability make it an ideal option for cooking and baking applications. With its environmental, animal welfare, and health benefits, JUST Egg is poised to revolutionize the way we think about food. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian, JUST Egg is definitely worth trying.
Get Creative with JUST Egg
JUST Egg is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Breakfast Ideas
- Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms
- Omelette with bell peppers and onions
- Breakfast burrito with JUST Egg and avocado
Lunch Ideas
- Egg salad sandwich with JUST Egg and vegan mayonnaise
- Quiche with JUST Egg and roasted vegetables
- Frittata with JUST Egg and cherry tomatoes
Dinner Ideas
- Pasta carbonara with JUST Egg and vegan bacon
- Stir-fry with JUST Egg and mixed vegetables
- Shakshuka with JUST Egg and roasted bell peppers
With its endless possibilities, JUST Egg is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, get creative, and crack open the world of plant-based cuisine!
What is JUST Egg, and how does it differ from traditional eggs?
JUST Egg is a plant-based egg alternative made from mung bean protein, a highly versatile and sustainable ingredient. Unlike traditional eggs, which come from chickens, JUST Egg is produced through a process of microbial fermentation, where microorganisms convert the mung bean protein into a functional and edible product. This innovative approach allows JUST Egg to replicate the taste, texture, and versatility of traditional eggs, making it an attractive option for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike.
The key difference between JUST Egg and traditional eggs lies in their composition and production process. Traditional eggs are high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and animal-derived protein, whereas JUST Egg is cholesterol-free, low in fat, and rich in plant-based protein. Additionally, JUST Egg has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional egg production, requiring less water, land, and energy to produce.
What inspired the creation of JUST Egg, and what problem does it solve in the vegan world?
The creation of JUST Egg was inspired by the growing demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional animal products. The company behind JUST Egg, Eat Just, Inc., aimed to develop a product that could replicate the taste, texture, and versatility of eggs, while also addressing the environmental, health, and animal welfare concerns associated with traditional egg production. JUST Egg solves a significant problem in the vegan world by providing a convenient, affordable, and accessible egg alternative that can be used in a variety of applications, from baking and cooking to scrambling and frying.
JUST Egg fills a gap in the market by offering a product that is both functional and sustainable. Many vegan egg alternatives available in the market are limited in their functionality, texture, or taste, making it difficult for consumers to replicate their favorite egg-based dishes. JUST Egg, on the other hand, is designed to be a 1:1 substitute for traditional eggs, making it an attractive option for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians who want to enjoy egg-based dishes without compromising on taste, texture, or values.
How does JUST Egg compare to other vegan egg alternatives in terms of taste, texture, and functionality?
JUST Egg is widely regarded as one of the most convincing vegan egg alternatives available in the market, with a taste, texture, and functionality that closely replicates traditional eggs. Compared to other vegan egg alternatives, JUST Egg has a more neutral flavor profile, a fluffier texture, and a better scrambling performance. Additionally, JUST Egg is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, from baking and cooking to scrambling and frying.
One of the key advantages of JUST Egg is its ability to mimic the binding properties of traditional eggs, making it an ideal substitute in baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and muffins. JUST Egg also has a better emulsification performance compared to other vegan egg alternatives, allowing it to create a more stable and creamy texture in dishes like mayonnaise and hollandaise sauce. Overall, JUST Egg is a game-changer in the vegan world, offering a product that is both functional and delicious.
What are the environmental benefits of choosing JUST Egg over traditional eggs?
Choosing JUST Egg over traditional eggs has several environmental benefits. Traditional egg production is a resource-intensive process that requires large amounts of water, land, and energy. In contrast, JUST Egg is produced through a process of microbial fermentation, which requires significantly less water, land, and energy. According to Eat Just, Inc., the company behind JUST Egg, their product requires 98% less water, 93% less land, and 83% less energy compared to traditional egg production.
Additionally, JUST Egg generates significantly less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional egg production. The production of traditional eggs is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to the release of methane and nitrous oxide from manure and fertilizers. JUST Egg, on the other hand, has a much lower carbon footprint, making it a more sustainable option for consumers who care about the environment.
Is JUST Egg suitable for consumers with common food allergies or intolerances?
JUST Egg allergies are one of the most common food allergies, and JUST Egg is a suitable option for consumers who are allergic to eggs. Since JUST Egg is made from mung bean protein, it is free from common allergens like eggs, dairy, and nuts. However, it’s essential to note that JUST Egg is produced in a facility that also processes other allergens, such as soy and gluten.
Consumers with gluten intolerance or sensitivity should be aware that JUST Egg contains a small amount of gluten due to the presence of wheat-based ingredients in the product. However, the gluten content is relatively low, and JUST Egg is considered safe for consumption by individuals with gluten intolerance. As with any food product, it’s essential to read the label carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about food allergies or intolerances.
How can I incorporate JUST Egg into my diet, and what are some popular recipe ideas?
JUST Egg is a versatile product that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. One of the most popular ways to use JUST Egg is to scramble it, just like traditional eggs. Simply heat some oil in a pan, add the JUST Egg mixture, and scramble it until it’s cooked to your liking. You can also use JUST Egg in baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and muffins, or as a substitute for eggs in recipes like quiches and frittatas.
Some popular recipe ideas using JUST Egg include vegan omelets, breakfast burritos, and egg-free mayonnaise. You can also use JUST Egg to make vegan versions of classic dishes like eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, and shakshuka. The possibilities are endless, and the JUST Egg website offers a range of recipe ideas and inspiration to get you started.
Where can I buy JUST Egg, and is it available in stores or online?
JUST Egg is widely available in stores and online across the United States and other countries. You can find JUST Egg in the refrigerated or frozen food section of many health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and some major retailers. Some popular retailers that carry JUST Egg include Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Walmart.
In addition to in-store availability, JUST Egg can also be purchased online through the company’s website or through online retailers like Amazon and Thrive Market. The company offers a range of purchasing options, including single units, 2-packs, and 6-packs, making it easy to stock up and try out different recipes. You can also use the company’s store locator tool to find a retailer near you that carries JUST Egg.