Standard Serving Size Explained
The standard serving size for the original liquid Just Egg product is three tablespoons, or 46 grams. This amount is intended to be a direct equivalent to a single large chicken egg, making substitutions in recipes straightforward. For recipes that require multiple eggs, simply multiply the three-tablespoon serving for each egg needed. The entire 12-ounce bottle contains approximately eight servings, depending on the final nutritional values listed by the manufacturer. It's crucial to check the specific packaging, as formulations can sometimes vary slightly.
Liquid Just Egg vs. Folded Just Egg
While the liquid version is measured out per serving, the Just Egg Folded products, which are pre-cooked and frozen, are sold as individual pieces. The serving size for a Folded Just Egg is one piece, which typically has a slightly higher calorie count and different nutritional profile than a three-tablespoon serving of the liquid variety. This ready-to-eat format offers convenience for quick meals like breakfast sandwiches, whereas the liquid version provides greater culinary flexibility for scrambles, omelets, and baking.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Just Egg Serving
Understanding the nutrition of a Just Egg serving helps contextualize its place in a healthy diet. The primary ingredients are water, mung bean protein isolate, and expeller-pressed canola oil, with various spices, colors, and thickeners added to replicate the taste and texture of eggs. The mung bean protein isolate provides the core plant-based protein source.
A three-tablespoon serving of liquid Just Egg provides approximately 60 to 70 calories, 4 to 5 grams of fat, and 5 grams of protein. Unlike chicken eggs, it contains zero cholesterol and no saturated fat. It does, however, contain more sodium than a traditional egg.
Key Nutritional Highlights
- Zero Cholesterol: A major benefit for those monitoring their cholesterol intake.
- High in Protein: Contains a similar amount of protein to a large egg, sourced entirely from plants.
- Fewer Micronutrients: Lacks some of the essential vitamins and minerals found naturally in chicken eggs, such as vitamins B12, D, and choline.
- Processed Ingredients: Contains a longer list of ingredients compared to a simple chicken egg, which may be a consideration for those focused on whole foods.
Culinary Applications and Tips
The serving size of Just Egg depends largely on how it is being used. For scrambles and omelets, a standard three-tablespoon serving works well for a single portion. For recipes like quiches or frittatas, a larger quantity is necessary.
Tips for Cooking with Just Egg
- Scrambles and Omelets: Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Pour in your desired amount (e.g., ½ cup for a larger omelet) and let it set. Stir gently for scrambles or cover and cook until firm for omelets. Cooking at too high a temperature can cause it to stick.
- Baking: Use a three-tablespoon serving to replace one large egg as a binder. For recipes where fat is important, adding a teaspoon of oil per 'egg' is recommended. It performs best in baked goods that use eggs as a binder, rather than for leavening.
- Seasoning: Just Egg can be seasoned just like regular eggs. Consider adding black salt (kala namak) for a more sulfuric, 'eggy' flavor.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze the liquid version of Just Egg, but it can be cooked and then frozen for later use.
Just Egg vs. Large Chicken Egg: A Comparison Table
| Feature | Just Egg (3 tbsp) | Large Chicken Egg (1 unit) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~70 kcal | ~72 kcal |
| Total Fat | 5g | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g | <2g |
| Protein | 5g | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | <1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 207mg |
| Sodium | ~170mg | 65mg |
| Key Nutrients | Protein, Healthy Fats | Protein, Vitamins A, D, B12, Choline |
| Processing | Ultra-processed | Minimally processed (whole food) |
| Environmental Impact | Significantly lower | Higher due to animal agriculture |
Conclusion
The serving size of Just Egg is clearly defined as three tablespoons for the liquid version, which corresponds to one large chicken egg. This makes it a convenient, cholesterol-free, and plant-based protein source for various meals and recipes. While it mirrors many nutritional aspects of a chicken egg, it is more processed and lacks some micronutrients found in the animal-based version. For those adhering to a vegan diet, managing cholesterol, or seeking a more sustainable option, Just Egg is an excellent alternative. However, individuals should weigh the trade-offs in micronutrient density and processed ingredients based on their overall dietary goals. For more information on their products and mission, visit the official Eat Just website at Eat Just.
