Here is a consolidated list of organic, vegetarian, vegan, and raw products I have tested, tasted and approved! (Emma helped). Product links to manufacturers, retailers, and nutrition info are provided where available. Of course, there are plenty of other options on the market, but if they don't meet my mouth's standards, you won't find them here (and I'm really picky)!
*I try to limit my meat and dairy substitutes, as they are predominantly made of heavily processed plant foods and, occasionally, chemicals, weird binders, and preservatives. But, as the Buddha would say, everything in moderation! Sometimes, we need a quick, easy, and inexpensive fix for a meaty craving (especially if you're a transitioning omnivore), like chicken nuggets, bacon, or sausage! Don't try to be perfect, because you're not. (I apologize if this is the first you've been informed of that!)
Quorn is, hands down, the best brand of chicken substitutes. The texture and flavor are consistent with that of real chicken (sans the occasional piece of bone or tendon). Soy-free, this is a great vegetarian option, however, it does contain egg whites, so it is NOT VEGAN.
Gimme Lean makes the best breakfast sausage. It comes ready to slice, in a tube like Jimmy Dean, but without the pig parts, fat, and cholesterol. It's high in protein and mimicks the taste and texture of some of the best breakfast patties, except you actually know what's in this one!
Silk is the go-to brand for soy milk. However, most soy milk has that gritty texture and nutty flavor that most of us don't want when we're craving a cold glass of milk to accompany a hot, gooey brownie. I've discovered that the new Silk with added DHA (omega 3) is the closest to the flavor of skim cow's milk, without leaving your mouth coated with that sour aftertaste.
