How Vegan Just Egg Compares Nutritionally To The Real Deal

Imagine an egg beater that scrambles, folds, looks, tastes, and nourishes like the classic breakfast ingredient but requires no chickens to produce. Just Egg presents as a plant-based panacea for those following a vegan diet, allergic to eggs, or just plain curious about what plants can do. Just Egg can scramble and fold like real eggs, but they can also allegedly substitute for real eggs in baked goods, just like flax seeds can.

The animal-free egg substitute may seem too good to be true, but, at least from a nutritional standpoint, is comparable to the real deal. A standard egg contains 78 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat, and a three-tablespoon serving of Just Egg contains 70 calories, 5 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat.

The most notable difference is that real eggs contain cholesterol, almost 200 milligrams apiece, while, like every plant-based food, Just Eggs contain no cholesterol. On the other hand, real eggs naturally contain only 62 milligrams of sodium, while Just Eggs contain 180 milligrams of sodium from added salt. On a micronutrient level, real eggs have yet to be beaten; they are packed with vitamins A, D, E, and B12, and choline, iron, selenium, and folate. Just Egg, however, is not fortified with any nutrients; its components contain trace amounts of calcium, iron, and potassium.

In terms of actual ingredients, real eggs are a one-character show, whereas Just Egg is comprised of a few different ingredients, including mung bean protein, expeller-pressed canola oil, flavorings, and emulsifiers. Mung beans are an excellent source of plant protein but are not a complete source, meaning they do not contain all essential amino acids. Pairing with grains, like a slice of whole wheat toast or a side of rice, is a good way to ensure that your Just Egg-based meal offers complete protein. Real eggs contain all essential amino acids, but solely for taste purposes; they also pair perfectly with toast.

The bottom line is that both hen eggs and Just Eggs are nutritious in their own right. Although Just Eggs are not as micronutrient-dense as the real deal, they still serve as a tasty and almost uncanny plant-based alternative, and they are certainly worth a try. While there are already many ways to elevate your everyday scrambled eggs, consider using the plant-based alternative, particularly if egg prices spike again.