meallike

Meallike is a neologism used in culinary design, nutrition, and food science to describe foods, meals, or eating experiences that approximate the composition, balance, and sensory qualities of a traditional meal. The term combines the word meal with the suffix -like to indicate resemblance rather than exact equivalence. It is used to classify products or dishes that aim to deliver a complete nutrient profile, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, and micronutrients, in a portion size suitable for a single sitting, while also providing variety in texture and flavor reminiscent of a conventional meal.

In practice, meallike formulations appear in ready-to-eat meals, meal kits, and fortified foods designed to be consumed as a complete meal. Common characteristics include balanced macronutrients, portion-controlled serving sizes, and sensory qualities such as aroma, color, and mouthfeel that support satiety and enjoyment. The concept is also used in culinary education and menu planning to emphasize meals that are nutritionally complete and satisfying rather than snack-like.

Etymology: from English meal plus -like; the term has gained usage in modern nutrition and consumer food discourse as options for convenient, complete eating are increasingly marketed as meallike.

Limitations: The term is informal and lacks a formal standard definition; interpretations vary by context and by manufacturer. See also: meal, meal replacement, nutrition, portion control.