Q: What Is a meal replacement?

A: Meal replacements include beverages, prepackaged shelf stable and frozen entrees, and meal/snack bars. The majorities of meal replacements are vitamin- and mineral-fortified and designed to replace one or two regular meals or snacks per day. Meal replacements are found in conventional grocery stores, health food stores, and even small convenience stores. The market of these ready-to-eat meals is booming, and many new companies and products are on the shelf every month. Make sure the companies follow the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) to ensure you are getting the stated label ingredients.