The growing popularity of vegetarianism and veganism has resulted in an abundance of soy- and grain-based substitutes for most common animal products consumed in the traditional American diet. From pizza pepperoni to sour cream, delicious meat-free and dairy-free alternatives now exist. The following list outlines many of the alternatives currently available. Some of these substitutes are stocked by typical supermarkets and grocery stores, while others may be found only in natural food stores.

• Bacon can be replaced by plant-based bacon options (e.g. Coconut Bacon)
• Beef Jerky can be replaced by a soy- or wheat-based jerky (e.g. Primal Strips)
• Butter is easily replaced by dairy-free margarine. Any brand made with non-hydrogenated oils is recommended (e.g.. Earth Balance or Spectrum brand).
• Cakes and Brownies can be made with dairy-free, egg-free mixes (e.g. Dixie Diner brand)
• Cheese can be replaced by soy- or rice-based cheese. Be aware that many brands still contain casein (a milk protein), so read the ingredients list if the package does not explicitly state that it is vegan. There are also natural substitutes for Parmesan cheese (such as Parma) and vegan nacho cheese (e.g. Parmela brand).
• Chocolate Bars are available without dairy, usually in the form of dark chocolate. Equal Exchange and Sjaak's brands are also Fair Trade Certified to ensure fair wages and no child labor (in contrast to mainstream brands).
• Cookies can be made without eggs or dairy products. Several brands typically are available in natural food stores (e.g. Alternative Baking Company brand).
• Cream Cheese is easily replaced by delicious soy-based or nut-based alternatives (e.g. Tofutti or Soya Kaas brands).
• Deli Meats can be replaced by soy- or gluten-based sandwich slices. Yves and Tofurky brands are very good and widely available. Shelf-stable brands exist too, such as Dixie Diner.
• Eggs can be replaced in frying, egg salad, and baking. Mashed tofu combined with a little turmeric or with a mix (e.g. Tofu Helper or Fantastic Foods brands) is a nice alternative to scrambled eggs. Tasty tofu mixes are also available for easy eggless "egg" salad. Eggs can be replaced in baking too. For each egg, substitute a heaping teaspoon of soy flour and a tablespoon of water, or slightly less than a 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed banana. Prepackaged substitutes for eggs are also available.
• Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling animal bones, tendons, ligaments, hooves, and/or skin. It is a common ingredient in jellied candies, frosted toaster pastries and cereals, Jell-O, etc. Alternatives include carrageenan, agar-agar, fruit pectin, and locust bean gum.
• Ground Beef can be replaced by healthy soy-based varieties (e.g. Harvest Direct brand), or try TVP.
• Hamburgers are easily replaced by soy-, grain-, or vegetable-based burgers. Some taste very much like traditional burgers, while others have an original taste of their own (e.g. Dr. Praeger's). Shelf-stable mixes are available too, such as Harvest Direct.
• Hot Dogs can be replaced by soy/tofu dogs. Several brands are now widely available.
• Ice Cream is easily replaced by soy- or rice-based frozen desserts. Some brands are so good that you truly can't tell the difference (try So Delicious or make your own with Temptation Mix). Also, sorbet is almost always dairy free.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches and Cookie Sandwiches can be replaced by delicious soy-based alternatives (e.g. Tofutti Cuties).
• Jell-O can be replaced by similar, gelatin-free products.
• Macaroni and Cheese can be replaced by a nondairy alternative (e.g. Mac and Chreese by Roads End Organics)
• Mayonnaise is easily replaced by eggless or tofu-based alternatives (e.g. Hain or Nayonaise brands)
• Milk is easily replaced by soy milk, rice milk, or oat milk. These are excellent replacements in baking too. There are dozens of brands available and they all taste different, so find the one that's right for you. Shelf stable options are available too (e.g. Better Than Milk brand)
• Parmesan Cheese can be replaced by a soy-based parmesan alternative (e.g. Parma brand).
• Pizza Pepperoni is easily replaced by the much healthier soy-based varieties. The flavor and texture is the same, but without the grease! Try Yves or Lightlife brands.
• Sausage can be replaced by soy/tofu sausage (e.g. Viana Snack Sausage or Soysage mix).
• Sour Cream is easily replaced by a soy-based alternative (e.g. Tofutti Sour Supreme).
• Whey is a serum obtained from cow's milk. Soybean whey is a good alternative.
• Whipped Cream/Topping is easily replaced by a delicious soy-based whipped topping (e.g. Soyatoo).
• Yogurt can be replaced by soy yogurt. Several brands are now available commercially. You can even make your own non-dairy yogurt with the help of a vegan yogurt starter.