How does consubstantiation differ from Roman Catholic transubstantiation?

The primary difference between these two doctrines lies in how they describe the change—or lack thereof—in the elements of bread and wine during the Eucharist.

• Transubstantiation: This Roman Catholic doctrine asserts that at the moment of consecration, the entire substance of the bread and wine is converted into the actual substance of the body and blood of Christ. While the empirical appearances (or "accidents") of the bread and wine remain, their underlying reality is entirely changed.12

• Consubstantiation: This term is often used to describe the view that Christ’s body and blood substantially coexist with the bread and wine. It suggests that the original elements do not cease to exist but are present alongside the body and blood of Christ. Notably, this term is often used unofficially to describe the Lutheran doctrine of the real presence, which teaches that Christ is present "in, with, and under" the elements.134

In short, while transubstantiation involves a total change of substance, consubstantiation emphasizes the coexistence of Christ with the original elements.1