Since we already live in a world with dystopian elements, why not one more? Just imagine, 50 years from now, all people will consume soylent, or something like it. Just enough nutrition to keep us alive and relatively well, but not enough protein to keep us strong or intelligent. Hunger will be a luxury and those with the means to sate their hunger will be of the luxury class. They will laugh at the complaints of yesteryear, complaints about $8 organic eggplants, because in their time, eggplants will cost $8,000 dollars each . . .
I certainly think that if the formula went through rounds of testing and was developed to the point where it could be tailored to individual nutrition, that it could certainly be used to excellent effect in a variety of scenarios. That of course, requires moderation. Perhaps it's part of our animal nature or because we are ensconced in a commercial and economic culture that promotes consumption, but moderation is something that fewer and fewer cultures are well-known for. I think that this product has the potential to be a good fit to help with the issue of childhood malnutrition, which is often found in impoverished or underprivileged communities. If it could be tweaked to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy human growth, then it would be fantastic to see this be a part of breakfast and lunch programs in schools. That said, given the facts listed about the way that the product is being developed, I certainly have my doubts that it will be executed as well as it could be, or used in a way that could resolve some serious issues our societies have faced in the past and are still dealing with. Thinking of the most evil option first leaves me space for optimism :)
I took it in much the same way. More a nutritional supplement than a complete food replacement, at least for me. I could see myself still eating once or twice a day just cause I view food and cooking as more of a hobby than anything.
I have been juicing of late. It makes me feel great, it takes the place of a meal, and it's fun. Let me know if you're interested in any recipes.
When I lived in my last place, my neighbor began making his own juices and got really into it. He was also working on a Ph. D in homeopathic medicine though. Online. He used to make this concoction of: Young celery Red grapes, with seeds Some lemon juice And some secret ingredients. Anyway, he swore it was good for cleansing the kidneys and several times, after heavy drinking, he had me try it. I don't know how true it is, but it did seem to help me get rid of a lot of stuff and generally, the next piss after that was pretty clear. The juice he made usually tasted a bit "earthy" (read: gross).
I love juicing and I tend to crave it. My favorite: Kale, romain lettuce, a whole lemon, two apples, ginger, celery, a beet and a handful of grapes. Nectar of the gods.
Yeah, it's certainly not a replacement for "food," but it can take the place of a couple of meals a week, which can save you time and in the case of most modern diets, likely be far better for you.