Frequently Asked Questions
How do the quality ratings work?
Our ratings are: 🟢 Perfect — works as a direct 1:1 substitute in most recipes; 🟡 Good — works well but may require slight adjustments; 🟠 Acceptable — use in a pinch, results may vary.
How does the quantity calculator work?
Enter your recipe amount and select a unit. The calculator multiplies your amount by the conversion factor to show how much substitute to use. Note: It keeps your selected unit (e.g., cups to cups).
What do the 'Avoid in' labels mean?
These indicate cooking contexts, techniques, or recipes where the substitute typically fails or produces undesirable results. Read them carefully before choosing a substitute.
How are dietary tags assigned?
Dietary tags (vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, etc.) reflect the ingredients in the substitute itself. Always check product labels for cross-contamination warnings.
Why do some substitutions have uncertainty flags?
Some substitutes work great in certain recipes but poorly in others. The warning banner appears when results may vary significantly based on your specific recipe, technique, or other ingredients.
Will these substitutions work for professional baking?
For critical recipes like wedding cakes, professional pastries, or competition entries, we recommend using the original ingredient. Test substitutions beforehand in small batches.
How do I suggest a missing ingredient?
We're continuously expanding our database. Email us at hello@swapingredient.com with the ingredient you'd like to see added.
What's the difference between Mode A and Mode B?
Mode A: "Replace an ingredient" — you have an ingredient you need to substitute.
Mode B: "Find uses for what I have" — you have an ingredient and want to know what it can replace.
Where do your substitution ratios come from?
Our ratios are based on cooking science, professional recipes, and community testing. Each substitute is researched for chemical properties and flavor compatibility.
Why is there a disclaimer about allergen safety?
While we accurately list ingredients in each substitute, cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing. Always verify product labels for allergens, especially with nut-free, soy-free, or gluten-free requirements.
Can I print the substitution results?
Yes! Click the Print button above the results for a clean, printer-friendly version of the substitutions.
Why can't I convert between different units (cups to grams)?
Ingredient densities vary significantly. Converting between weight and volume would give inaccurate results. Use same-unit conversions for accuracy.
Do you use cookies? How does cookie consent work?
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