Food substitutes are products that are used to replace natural foods during food production or preparation. They can be made from a variety of ingredients, including plant proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
Food substitutes have a number of advantages over natural foods, including lower cost, longer shelf life, and the ability to add a variety of ingredients. However, like any other substitute, food substitutes may have their drawbacks, such as possibly containing harmful substances and not providing enough essential nutrients.
One of the most popular food substitutes is soy protein. It is made from soybeans and is used as a replacement for dairy products such as milk and yogurt. Soy protein contains less fat and carbohydrates than dairy products, making it attractive to those watching their weight or health.
Another popular food substitute is cornstarch. It is used in the production of bread, cookies, ice cream, candy and other products. Cornstarch is made from corn and has a high ability to bind moisture, which improves the texture and quality of foods.
Many people also use meal replacement products to reduce their intake of sugar and saturated fat. For example, some manufacturers use artificial sweeteners such as sucralose instead of sugar, and some products such as butter are replaced with a healthier fat substitute - avocado oil.
However, it is worth remembering that not all food substitutes are safe and can be harmful to health. It is important to choose high quality products and read labels carefully to ensure they do not contain harmful substances.