i used to scoff at people who eat foods that are marketed as tasting like meat. i've since let pragmatism win out. if it helps you reduce your meat consumption, that's really all that matters.
how does the community feel about these products? any brands to avoid, or try?
Is there a consensus? I find that the texture and flavor varies greatly between brands and types of substitutes. My advice is: You do you. If you like a particular substitute, eat it. If not, don’t.
Keep an eye on the sodium levels since a lot of “meatless” products are full of salt. Also be aware that “plant based” on the label doesn’t always mean egg-free or dairy-free. Quorn nuggets are made with egg whites for example.