They claim to eliminate the faff of prepping meals, help with weight loss and provide enough protein and fibre to keep you full.
But meal replacements — which cost up to £9 a day — may not be as good as a home-cooked meal.
They can be a source of vitamins and an option for those who are short of time, notes registered nutritionist Rob Hobson.
However, food replacements, touted by the likes of Idris Elba, may not fill you