Soy-based foodstuffs packaged to look like their flesh-based analogue. Often known by delightfully straightforward names such as Notchicken and Notbacon.

It's not immediately obvious exactly who these products are marketed at, but one might guess they are pitched at the more health-conscious, rather than environmentally aware, vegetarian.

Vegetarian sausages and Vegeburgers could also fall into this category, for being based at least in concept on a meat-based food.

Textured Vegetable Protein is another meat substitute that is commonly used. It can make good chili, but not much else that's palatable.

I understand that certain mushrooms also have a meaty consistancy, but I have yet to taste one that can fool me.

Many people ask why as a Vege you would want to eat something that is imitating meat. I would say most vegetarians did not stop eating meat beacuse it tasted bad. There are dozens of other reasons to do so.

I am a vegan, but enjoy eating a wide range of tastes and textures. Meat analogs are another sorce of that. As well sometimes it is nice to enjoy a vegan version of food others are eating around you. Hotdogs, hamburgers, deli meat, turky on thanksgiving, meatballs in pasta, the list goes on.

Some of my favorite's: Boca Burgers, Tempeh Bacon (Fakin Bacon) Chicken-free nuggets, Soy Sausage, Tofurky deli meat, yummy seitan things, any of the great soy dogs on a toasted bun with all the fixings. Vegweb is a great site for recipes.