The global food industry is rapidly evolving, driven by the need for high-quality, natural ingredients and innovative solutions that future-proof the supply chain.

Ingredient manufacturers are at the forefront of this, offering forward-thinking products that address current demands as well as future challenges. This includes combining natural ingredients with cutting-edge technology, to provide effective alternatives to traditional ingredients that have become less desirable or more expensive.

One major issue for both consumers and manufacturers is how to reduce/replace eggs. Eggs are a vital ingredient in the food industry to thicken, stabilise, foam, emulsify and consequently enhance fresh-keeping throughout the product shelf life.

However, several factors have led to a growing demand for egg substitutes including record food inflation, avian flu, egg allergies, increase in plant-based diets and consumer interest in wellness, nutrition and sustainability.

In today's price-sensitive market, manufacturers are seeking egg replacement solutions to reduce costs whilst maintaining high product quality, and dietary and sustainability requirements.

As a result, CSM Ingredients Group – a leading group in the research and development of ingredients comprising CSM Ingredients and HIFOOD – has developed a range of systems to partially or fully replace whole eggs, egg whites and egg yolks in sauces, bakery and pastry items, gluten-free products and ready meals.

Christian Sobolta, managing director at CSM Ingredients Group, commented: “Thanks to our open innovation approach, we are able to leverage technology and combine internal and external know-how to help build a more sustainable food industry".

She added: "In a constantly evolving marketplace, cost-effectiveness, reducing allergens and risks of contamination and animal welfare, are hugely important areas, especially concerning eggs. Our teams have developed egg replacement products that are now being used daily by our customers.”

CSM Ingredients Group’s range provides egg reduction or egg substitution solutions for various applications, including:

Egg ‘n Easy

Designed for cake and muffin batters, Egg ‘n Easy allows manufacturers to produce high-quality baked goods and reduce the use of eggs. This cuts costs and limits contamination risks and contributes to a lower environmental impact.

Made from wheat flour, wheat protein, vegetable fibres and sorbitol, Egg ‘n Easy enhances batter viscosity, improves oil retention in oil-containing batters and is suitable for vegan and clean label products. It supports excellent crumb structure, maintaining a fresh and soft texture with an appealing crust. By using Egg ‘n Easy, manufacturers can reduce egg-related costs by up to 25%.

If used in combination with CSM’s proprietary Enzyme knowledge, this reduction could increase to 50%.

Magic GLAZE

Magic GLAZE is a premium glaze that delivers a unique shine and golden colour to sweet and savoury baked goods. Made from an unsweetened, water-based substitute without preservatives and hydrogenated fats, colours or flavours, it is egg-free and is suitable for vegans and clean label products.

Magic GLAZE creates a lasting, attractive smooth shine and can be applied to a variety of products including brioche, croissants, shortcrust, puff pastry, sandwiches and breads. It also helps bakers achieve cost efficiencies with value for money.

Veganeez

Veganeez offers a clean label system for the cold production of high-quality, cost-effective plant-based sauces and dressings. Veganeez S is ideal for creamy, rich sauces, while Veganeez D is suitable for fluid, silky dressings. Both are neutral in colour, allowing for the addition of natural colourings like β-carotene and have a mild, pleasant flavour that can be customised with spices and flavours.

Made from natural ingredients, both products are additive-free, GMO-free, gluten-free and allergen-free, making them a versatile choice for various applications and a wide range of dressings and sauces.

In today's economic climate, egg replacers and egg reducers offer a viable solution for producers looking to reduce costs while catering to price-sensitive consumers.

For more information, visit the CSM Ingredients Group website.