Be warned- this is an alarming video clip. Share this post so people can know what they are really paying for.
Thursday, 28 February 2013
How are Chicken Nuggets made?
If you have ever purchased chicken 'food like' products from either fast food outlets, supermarkets (boxes of chicken strips, balls, burgers etc) in the frozen section , or even school tuck shops, it may well be worth taking a few minutes to view the following You Tube clip- 'What are Chicken Nuggets made of'.
This clip explains how mechanically separated meat is turned into the popular 'industrial novelty' called chicken nuggets.
Be warned- this is an alarming video clip. Share this post so people can know what they are really paying for.
Be warned- this is an alarming video clip. Share this post so people can know what they are really paying for.
Monday, 25 February 2013
Quorn Chicken Style Burgers
Having seen quite a number of prime time television advertisements I have decided to do a post on Quorn products. Although the advertisements would lead us to believe that Quorn is a healthy alternative to meat (meat & soy free; good source of protein; No Cholesterol; Heart Foundation Tick & No Artificial Colours or Flavours) I have come to the conclusion that they win my award for 'ADVERTISING BY OMISSION!'
After studying the ingredient lists of a number of the Quorn products it's truly very disappointing to see from 1-3 forms of MSG in the products I studied. The Quorn mince has only 3 ingredients but the 3rd is Barley malt extract (i.e. a form of MSG).
The Chicken Style Burgers are exactly that- 'Chicken style'. No real chicken in sight! With only 48% actual mycoprotein the other 52% is a mixture of Textured Wheat protein (3rd on the list & a form of MSG), canola oil, natural flavour & yeast extract (both forms of MSG).
The Quorn Sausage rolls also have 2 forms of MSG listed on the ingredient list- i.e. textured wheat protein, & barley malt extract.
Where did the 'real food go!' Certainly not in these industrial novelties.
Here is a brief description of the industrial process:
The mycoprotein used to produce Quorn is extracted from the fungus Fusarium venenatum, which is grown in large vats.The fungus is grown in continually oxygenated water in large, otherwise sterile fermentation tanks. Glucose is added as a food for the fungus, as are vitamins and minerals to improve the food value of the product. The resulting mycoprotein is then extracted and heat-treated to remove excess levels of RNA.
The product is then dried and mixed with chicken egg albumen, which acts as a binder. It is then textured, giving it some of the grained character of meat, and pressed either into a mince (resembling ground beef), forms resembling chicken breasts, meatballs, turkey roasts, or into chunks (resembling diced chicken breast). The different tastes and forms of Quorn are results of industrial processing of the raw fungus.
Actually, after looking up the type of fungus used, it might be worth taking a closer look at the products actual "food" value..." Fusarium graminearum, is a plant pathogen which causes fusarium head blight, a devastating disease on wheat and barley." Hmm...not an appetising thought!
The CSPI observed that while a mushroom is a fungus, Fusarium is not a mushroom, and stated, "Quorn's fungus is as closely related to mushrooms as humans are to jellyfish.".
After studying the ingredient lists of a number of the Quorn products it's truly very disappointing to see from 1-3 forms of MSG in the products I studied. The Quorn mince has only 3 ingredients but the 3rd is Barley malt extract (i.e. a form of MSG).
The Chicken Style Burgers are exactly that- 'Chicken style'. No real chicken in sight! With only 48% actual mycoprotein the other 52% is a mixture of Textured Wheat protein (3rd on the list & a form of MSG), canola oil, natural flavour & yeast extract (both forms of MSG).
The Quorn Sausage rolls also have 2 forms of MSG listed on the ingredient list- i.e. textured wheat protein, & barley malt extract.
Where did the 'real food go!' Certainly not in these industrial novelties.
Here is a brief description of the industrial process:
The mycoprotein used to produce Quorn is extracted from the fungus Fusarium venenatum, which is grown in large vats.The fungus is grown in continually oxygenated water in large, otherwise sterile fermentation tanks. Glucose is added as a food for the fungus, as are vitamins and minerals to improve the food value of the product. The resulting mycoprotein is then extracted and heat-treated to remove excess levels of RNA.
The product is then dried and mixed with chicken egg albumen, which acts as a binder. It is then textured, giving it some of the grained character of meat, and pressed either into a mince (resembling ground beef), forms resembling chicken breasts, meatballs, turkey roasts, or into chunks (resembling diced chicken breast). The different tastes and forms of Quorn are results of industrial processing of the raw fungus.
Actually, after looking up the type of fungus used, it might be worth taking a closer look at the products actual "food" value..." Fusarium graminearum, is a plant pathogen which causes fusarium head blight, a devastating disease on wheat and barley." Hmm...not an appetising thought!
The CSPI observed that while a mushroom is a fungus, Fusarium is not a mushroom, and stated, "Quorn's fungus is as closely related to mushrooms as humans are to jellyfish.".
Sunday, 24 February 2013
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
BRAGG's Organic Apple Cider Vinegar: Forget the energy drinks & have some real 'mother!'
For a delicious, ideal pick-me-up at home, work, sports or gym, consume a Bragg Vinegar Health Drink 3 times daily - upon arising, mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Stir 1 to 2 tsps Bragg Organic Vinegar in 225ml glass of filtered water and (optional) to taste, 1 to 2 tsps Organic Honey, 100% Maple Syrup, Blackstrap Molasses, or 4 drops of Stevia.
Following the old cliché, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," apples are one of the oldest, most nutritious foods on earth. They are rich in potassium, a mineral many of us are deficient in, and a deficiency that causes old age to creep upon us sooner.
Calcium maintains our hard tissues such as bones, and potassium is the equivalent to the body’s soft tissues, keeping the body’s flesh and arteries soft and resilient. Fresh, organic apples are used to make Apple Cider Vinegar, which contains necessary ingredients, such as enzymes, and life-stimulating minerals, mainly potassium, in a natural state. Besides being a natural stimulant for vitality, Apple Cider Vinegar cleanses and restores nutrients to the body so that the body can heal itself.
This vinegar is allowed to mature in wooden barrels, which boosts its natural fermentation qualities. When mature, it contains a web-like substance, called "mother" that becomes visible when the rich brownish liquid is held to the light.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: Helps Remove Body Toxins * Helps Promote a Youthful Body *Helps support a healthy immune system * Helps Maintain Healthy Skin * Helps Control Weight * Improves Digestion and Assimilation * Soothes Tight and Aching Joints and Sore Muscles from exercise * Helps remove toxins and creates alkalinity* Soothes irritated skin.
Enjoy daily!
For a delicious, ideal pick-me-up at home, work, sports or gym, consume a Bragg Vinegar Health Drink 3 times daily - upon arising, mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Stir 1 to 2 tsps Bragg Organic Vinegar in 225ml glass of filtered water and (optional) to taste, 1 to 2 tsps Organic Honey, 100% Maple Syrup, Blackstrap Molasses, or 4 drops of Stevia.
Following the old cliché, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," apples are one of the oldest, most nutritious foods on earth. They are rich in potassium, a mineral many of us are deficient in, and a deficiency that causes old age to creep upon us sooner.
Calcium maintains our hard tissues such as bones, and potassium is the equivalent to the body’s soft tissues, keeping the body’s flesh and arteries soft and resilient. Fresh, organic apples are used to make Apple Cider Vinegar, which contains necessary ingredients, such as enzymes, and life-stimulating minerals, mainly potassium, in a natural state. Besides being a natural stimulant for vitality, Apple Cider Vinegar cleanses and restores nutrients to the body so that the body can heal itself.
This vinegar is allowed to mature in wooden barrels, which boosts its natural fermentation qualities. When mature, it contains a web-like substance, called "mother" that becomes visible when the rich brownish liquid is held to the light.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: Helps Remove Body Toxins * Helps Promote a Youthful Body *Helps support a healthy immune system * Helps Maintain Healthy Skin * Helps Control Weight * Improves Digestion and Assimilation * Soothes Tight and Aching Joints and Sore Muscles from exercise * Helps remove toxins and creates alkalinity* Soothes irritated skin.
Enjoy daily!
Friday, 22 February 2013
Natural Fruit Chips
'Safe eating' snacks are difficult to find in the supermarket. So how about making your own?
Keep your eye out when fruit is in season , plentiful & well priced. Then, invest in an Excalibur Dehydrator and not only will you save money but the taste of bananas, pineapple, apples, mangoes etc will be a winner with all the family. Plus, there are no added colours or preservatives! Involving the children with arranging the fruit on the trays gets them excited about the whole process.
I hope you enjoy watching this video clip & remember, Mother's Day is not so far away- so put your request in prior to the big day!
Keep your eye out when fruit is in season , plentiful & well priced. Then, invest in an Excalibur Dehydrator and not only will you save money but the taste of bananas, pineapple, apples, mangoes etc will be a winner with all the family. Plus, there are no added colours or preservatives! Involving the children with arranging the fruit on the trays gets them excited about the whole process.
I hope you enjoy watching this video clip & remember, Mother's Day is not so far away- so put your request in prior to the big day!
Thursday, 21 February 2013
Apricot Trail Bars
Just following up on a request for a home made snack bar. This is a great recipe- one you can easily make for your children's lunch boxes:
Ingredients
1C wholegrain rolled oats 1 C chopped apricots (organic & sulphite free if desired)
1C desiccated coconut
1/2 C Wheat Germ 125g butter
1/2 C Chia Seeds 1/2 C brown sugar
1/2 C Sunflower Kernels 1/2 honey
1/2 C Pepitas
Method
1. Grease a baking pan and line with baking paper (16cm x 28cm, 3 cm deep).
2. Toast the rolled oats, wheat germ, chia seeds, sunflower kernels and pepitas in a frying pan over a medium heat for 4-5 mins, stirring gently with a wooden spoon.
3. Add the coconut and continue toasting until golden brown (approx. another 4 mins).
4. Transfer the toasted seeds into a bowl, allow to cool.
5. Stir in chopped apricots.
6. In a small saucepan combine butter, sugar and honey over a medium heat, stirring continuously for 3-4 mins until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring to the boil, and then reduce to a low heat and simmer (without stirring) for 7 mins. The syrup is ready when a small portion forms a soft ball when dropped into ice-cold water.
7. Add the syrup to the dry ingredients and combine well.
8. Transfer the mixture into the baking pan, press firmly with a large metal spoon to ensure densely packed, with an even surface.
9. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
1C wholegrain rolled oats 1 C chopped apricots (organic & sulphite free if desired)
1C desiccated coconut
1/2 C Wheat Germ 125g butter
1/2 C Chia Seeds 1/2 C brown sugar
1/2 C Sunflower Kernels 1/2 honey
1/2 C Pepitas
Method
1. Grease a baking pan and line with baking paper (16cm x 28cm, 3 cm deep).
2. Toast the rolled oats, wheat germ, chia seeds, sunflower kernels and pepitas in a frying pan over a medium heat for 4-5 mins, stirring gently with a wooden spoon.
3. Add the coconut and continue toasting until golden brown (approx. another 4 mins).
4. Transfer the toasted seeds into a bowl, allow to cool.
5. Stir in chopped apricots.
6. In a small saucepan combine butter, sugar and honey over a medium heat, stirring continuously for 3-4 mins until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring to the boil, and then reduce to a low heat and simmer (without stirring) for 7 mins. The syrup is ready when a small portion forms a soft ball when dropped into ice-cold water.
7. Add the syrup to the dry ingredients and combine well.
8. Transfer the mixture into the baking pan, press firmly with a large metal spoon to ensure densely packed, with an even surface.
9. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, 19 February 2013
The butter flavour Diacetyl
As yesterday's post has brought forward some discussion on the way 'flavours and flavourings' are used I thought it was time to include a post on the butter flavour, Diacetyl, found in microwave popcorn. When I read about this years ago when my children were young it wasn't long before I ditched the packet and started popping my own corn! Read on & make your own decision.
It has been known since 1989 that diacetyl vapour is irritating to the throat and lungs and laboratory studies in the 1990s showed that diacetyl vapours were highly toxic to laboratory rats, with effects likened to ‘inhaling acid’ by scientists.
Dr David Michaels, who heads the George Washington University School of Public Health’s Project on Scientific Knowledge and Public Policy, says that diacetyl was approved for food use based on studies that examined consumption, not inhalation.
‘There is compelling evidence that breathing diacetyl vapours causes lung disease and there is no evidence of a safe exposure level,’ says Michaels, who has asked the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove diacetyl from the list of safe additives.
Meanwhile, the butter flavour diacetyl – used in products such as microwave popcorn – has been linked
to a rare and deadly respiratory disease known as Popcorn Workers Lung. Its victims include young, healthy, non-smoking flavouring industry workers who have been exposed to vapours when diacetyl is heated.
Although our children are not working in such a factory environment I would strongly advise against the consumption of this product.
It has been known since 1989 that diacetyl vapour is irritating to the throat and lungs and laboratory studies in the 1990s showed that diacetyl vapours were highly toxic to laboratory rats, with effects likened to ‘inhaling acid’ by scientists.
Dr David Michaels, who heads the George Washington University School of Public Health’s Project on Scientific Knowledge and Public Policy, says that diacetyl was approved for food use based on studies that examined consumption, not inhalation.
‘There is compelling evidence that breathing diacetyl vapours causes lung disease and there is no evidence of a safe exposure level,’ says Michaels, who has asked the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove diacetyl from the list of safe additives.
Meanwhile, the butter flavour diacetyl – used in products such as microwave popcorn – has been linked
to a rare and deadly respiratory disease known as Popcorn Workers Lung. Its victims include young, healthy, non-smoking flavouring industry workers who have been exposed to vapours when diacetyl is heated.
Although our children are not working in such a factory environment I would strongly advise against the consumption of this product.
SPC Fruit Crush Ups
When reading the claims on the front of this 'food-like product' namely, 'No Nasties, Fast Fruit Snack, Freeze for School Lunch Boxes & 1/2 serve fruit', I was immediately suspicious.
Unfortunately, many consumers would not realize that the 3rd ingredient listed, 'Natural Strawberry Flavour' contains more nasties than I have room to list here! But then again why not! Here it is in small print!
Unfortunately, many consumers would not realize that the 3rd ingredient listed, 'Natural Strawberry Flavour' contains more nasties than I have room to list here! But then again why not! Here it is in small print!
According to Schlosser, a typical artificial strawberry flavour – in foods such as yoghurts– will probably contain such chemicals as amyl acetate, amyl butyrate, amyl valerate, anethol,anisyl formate, benzyl acetate, benzylisobutyrate, butyric acid, cinnamylisobutyrate, cinnamyl valerate,cognac essential oil, diacetyl,
dipropyl ketone, ethyl acetate,ethyl amyl ketone,ethyl butyrate,ethyl cinnamate,ethyl haptanoate, ethyl heptylate, ethyl lactate, ethyl methylphenylglycidate,
ethyl nitrate, ethyl propionate, ethyl valerate,heliotropin, hydroxyphrenyl-2-butanone,alpha-ionone, isobutyl anthranilate, isobutylbutyrate, lemon essential oil, maltol, 4-methylacetophenone, methyl anthranilate,methyl benzoate, methyl cinnamate, methylheptine carbonate, methyl naphthyl ketone,methyl salicylate, mintessential oil, neroliessential oil, nerolin, neryl isobutyrate, orrisbutter, phenethyl alcohol, rose, rum ether,gamma-undecalactone, vanillin and solvent.
In addition to this, the advertised price is $14.33 kg! Best to adhere to Michael pollen's rule: 'If it came from a plant, eat it; if it was made in a plant, don't."
Sunday, 17 February 2013
Nature Valley Oats & Honey Bars
Yet another supposed 'health bar' for school lunch boxes and snacks has hit our supermarket shelves.
Whilst it was pleasing to see not added colours, MSG or nasty preservatives it was disappointing to see only 2% honey and the 2nd ingredient is sugar. Since the % of wholegrain rolled oats is only 56% this means that we can only deduct that the % of sugar is extremely high ( possibly as high as 39%).
Not a wise lunchbox choice in my opinion.
Whilst it was pleasing to see not added colours, MSG or nasty preservatives it was disappointing to see only 2% honey and the 2nd ingredient is sugar. Since the % of wholegrain rolled oats is only 56% this means that we can only deduct that the % of sugar is extremely high ( possibly as high as 39%).
Not a wise lunchbox choice in my opinion.
Friday, 15 February 2013
Dr. Terry Wahls- a narrative of her recovery from Multiple Sclerosis
I have purposefully posted this video clip prior to the weekend in the hope that as many people as possible will be able to take 17 mins. out of their busy daily lives, view this & pass it on to whomever you may know who either has M.S. or who knows someone with M.S.
Dr. Terry Wahl's narrative is indeed a remarkable story & one which has inspired me. Hippocrates, (the father of Modern Medicine) stated 'Let food be thy Medicine'.
Listen to how Dr. Terry Wahls discovered this truth for herself & reversed her M.S. (Multiple Sclerosis).
Dr. Terry Wahl's narrative is indeed a remarkable story & one which has inspired me. Hippocrates, (the father of Modern Medicine) stated 'Let food be thy Medicine'.
Thursday, 14 February 2013
Additive Alert in Queensland, Australia
Julie Eady is the author of 'Additive Alert'. This is a book I purchased around 2005. It's very informative, well formatted and full of valuable information.
Julie has engaged a Q'ld Community Talks Presenter, Louise D'Allura, a qualified Home Economist. Louise is holding seminars in Ipswich, Toowoomba, Maroochydore and Brisbane during February and March.
I have decided to post up the venues and dates of Louise's talks in the hope that some of you can gather 3 or multiples of 3 friends together to enjoy one of these evenings.
Here are the dates:
Ipswich:
The Dirty Dozen: Food Additives to Avoid
Tuesday 19 February 2013, 7pm – 8:30 pm
Tickets: $15 each or $33 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Toowoomba:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Wednesday 27 February 2013, 7pm-9pm
Tickets:$20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Maroochydore:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Wednesday 6 March 2013, 7pm-9pm (with Special Guest Tania Hubbard from Gluten Free Grain Free Company)
Tickets: $20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Brisbane:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Thursday 21 March 2013, 7pm-9pm
Cooparoo Bowls Club
Tickets: $20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Bookings essential via
http://www.mealplanningyourway.com/shop/workshops/upcoming-events/
.
Enjoy!
Julie has engaged a Q'ld Community Talks Presenter, Louise D'Allura, a qualified Home Economist. Louise is holding seminars in Ipswich, Toowoomba, Maroochydore and Brisbane during February and March.
I have decided to post up the venues and dates of Louise's talks in the hope that some of you can gather 3 or multiples of 3 friends together to enjoy one of these evenings.
Here are the dates:
Ipswich:
The Dirty Dozen: Food Additives to Avoid
Tuesday 19 February 2013, 7pm – 8:30 pm
Tickets: $15 each or $33 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Toowoomba:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Wednesday 27 February 2013, 7pm-9pm
Tickets:$20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Maroochydore:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Wednesday 6 March 2013, 7pm-9pm (with Special Guest Tania Hubbard from Gluten Free Grain Free Company)
Tickets: $20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Brisbane:
Food for a Happy and Calm Household
Thursday 21 March 2013, 7pm-9pm
Cooparoo Bowls Club
Tickets: $20 each or $49.50 for 3 (includes the Additives to Avoid wallet card).
Bookings essential via
http://www.mealplanningyourway.com/shop/workshops/upcoming-events/
.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, 13 February 2013
Up & Go Energize
Whilst on the subject of 'Poppers' / drinks I decided to look into the ingredients in the relatively new Sanitarium Up & Go 'Energize'.
Unfortunately, it violates at least 3 of Michael Pollan's essential food rules, namely,
Avoid food products that contain high-fructose corn syrup.
Avoid foods that have some form of sugar (or sweetener) listed among the top 3 ingredients. (barley malt, beet sugar, fruit juice concentrate etc)
Avoid food products that contain more than 5 ingredients.
Cane sugar is the 3rd ingredient listed; fructose is 6th; corn syrup (i.e. fructose) solids are 11th and 15 or so ingredients in total.
In addition to this, canola oil which has been linked to macular degeneration of the eye is 5th on the ingredient listed only to be superceded (i.e.4th), by 'soy protein' which is a form of MSG. The inevitable word 'flavour' (i.e. a form of MSG) is 9th on the list.
It was pleasing to see no 'maltodextrin' on the ingredient list as is in the original Up & Go products.
However, definitely not a wise purchase for the school lunch box or breakfast on the run.
Unfortunately, it violates at least 3 of Michael Pollan's essential food rules, namely,
Avoid food products that contain high-fructose corn syrup.
Avoid foods that have some form of sugar (or sweetener) listed among the top 3 ingredients. (barley malt, beet sugar, fruit juice concentrate etc)
Avoid food products that contain more than 5 ingredients.
Cane sugar is the 3rd ingredient listed; fructose is 6th; corn syrup (i.e. fructose) solids are 11th and 15 or so ingredients in total.
In addition to this, canola oil which has been linked to macular degeneration of the eye is 5th on the ingredient listed only to be superceded (i.e.4th), by 'soy protein' which is a form of MSG. The inevitable word 'flavour' (i.e. a form of MSG) is 9th on the list.
It was pleasing to see no 'maltodextrin' on the ingredient list as is in the original Up & Go products.
However, definitely not a wise purchase for the school lunch box or breakfast on the run.
Monday, 11 February 2013
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
Bio-Medicals Certified Organic Tasteless Coconut Oil: This is cold pressed, gluten free and has no taste or odour of coconut. This oil has all the advantages of Coconut Oil without the dominant taste or odour of Coconut. A few weeks ago a reader was wondering if such an oil exists. So here it is!
I purchased my 700mls bottle ($19.95 ) from my local organic butcher (G.J's Organic Meats) here at Parkwood, Gold Coast.
The benefits of Coconut Oil are too numerous to name here but the oil may assist you with
thyroid function, herpes virus, obesity (increases the metabolic rate), candida, hormone imbalances and improves digestion and absorption of fat soluble vitamins and amino acids.
Ketones found in coconut oil may slow Alzheimer's disease and in some people (a teaspoon mixed in food, twice a day) may actually prevent it. Enjoy!
Exclusive two way, green lidded pouring system-
either pour the liquid (above 25 degrees Celsius), or
scoop it out when cold and a semi solid (below 25 degrees)
I purchased my 700mls bottle ($19.95 ) from my local organic butcher (G.J's Organic Meats) here at Parkwood, Gold Coast.
The benefits of Coconut Oil are too numerous to name here but the oil may assist you with
thyroid function, herpes virus, obesity (increases the metabolic rate), candida, hormone imbalances and improves digestion and absorption of fat soluble vitamins and amino acids.
Ketones found in coconut oil may slow Alzheimer's disease and in some people (a teaspoon mixed in food, twice a day) may actually prevent it. Enjoy!
Exclusive two way, green lidded pouring system-
either pour the liquid (above 25 degrees Celsius), or
scoop it out when cold and a semi solid (below 25 degrees)
V8 Vegetable Juice poppers
Today I looked at the ingredient lists of three V8 popper varieties- Vegetable Juice Original, Fruit & Vegetable Juice Tropical & Fruit & Vegetable Orange, Mango & Passion.
It was great to see that none contained any artificial colours. The highest vegetable content was in the Original flavour (99%).
Both Tropical and Orange, Mango & Passion had only 69% which was disappointing. All were 'reconsitiuted' and, like the other fruit juice poppers all list 'natural flavours' (i.e. a form of MSG). Flavours were listed last at least, except for the Tropical flavour (4th last).
I would advise to avoid the Tropical flavour for another reason as well. The last ingredient 'Malic Acid' is regarded as not suitable for children as it's unknown if they can digest it fully. It also may call allergic reactions and /or skin irritations.
Best choice of the 3- Vegetable Juice Original.
It was great to see that none contained any artificial colours. The highest vegetable content was in the Original flavour (99%).
Both Tropical and Orange, Mango & Passion had only 69% which was disappointing. All were 'reconsitiuted' and, like the other fruit juice poppers all list 'natural flavours' (i.e. a form of MSG). Flavours were listed last at least, except for the Tropical flavour (4th last).
I would advise to avoid the Tropical flavour for another reason as well. The last ingredient 'Malic Acid' is regarded as not suitable for children as it's unknown if they can digest it fully. It also may call allergic reactions and /or skin irritations.
Best choice of the 3- Vegetable Juice Original.
Sunday, 10 February 2013
Fruit Juice/ Fruit Drink Poppers (cont)
To date, my analysis of poppers has revealed the following:
I found the 'Glo' brand not to be a 'safe' choice- Apple Mango not only has the 2nd ingredient listed as sugar, but also contains 2 colours (110, & 102) which have been linked to hyperactivity & are suspected carcinogens. Glo Apple Raspberry also contains 2 colours (122 & 133) both of which are suspected carcinogens & linked to hyperactivity. Brilliant Blue (133) should also be avoided by asthmatics.
All brands that I studied contain varying amounts of reconstituted juice- the highest being Just Juice (99.9%), Westcliff Apple (99.7% - Aldi), & Select Real Juice (98%).
Bear in mind though that all reconstituted juice contains sugar & that all the brands I have mentioned so far list either 'Natural Flavour' or 'Flavour' (i.e.a form of MSG) as an ingredient. At least it is last on the ingredient list but, we must also bear in mind that there is still a 5% loophole here in Australia. This means that manufacturers can get away with not listing additives if they are present in an ingredient that comprises 5% or less of the product.
I found the 'Glo' brand not to be a 'safe' choice- Apple Mango not only has the 2nd ingredient listed as sugar, but also contains 2 colours (110, & 102) which have been linked to hyperactivity & are suspected carcinogens. Glo Apple Raspberry also contains 2 colours (122 & 133) both of which are suspected carcinogens & linked to hyperactivity. Brilliant Blue (133) should also be avoided by asthmatics.
All brands that I studied contain varying amounts of reconstituted juice- the highest being Just Juice (99.9%), Westcliff Apple (99.7% - Aldi), & Select Real Juice (98%).
Bear in mind though that all reconstituted juice contains sugar & that all the brands I have mentioned so far list either 'Natural Flavour' or 'Flavour' (i.e.a form of MSG) as an ingredient. At least it is last on the ingredient list but, we must also bear in mind that there is still a 5% loophole here in Australia. This means that manufacturers can get away with not listing additives if they are present in an ingredient that comprises 5% or less of the product.
Thursday, 7 February 2013
Fruit Juice or Fruit Drink Poppers?
Lunch box contents (cont): There are an increasing array of fruit juice poppers on our supermarket shelves and what to choose remains a frequent dilemma for many mums, dads & carers.
Filtered water in a BPA free bottle is a wise choice but should you wish to include a popper I will discuss my findings to date & follow through with a 2nd post.
It's best to stay away from the fruit drinks. They contain minimal juice (max. 40%) and added sugar. Golden Circle Pineapple and Golden Circle Sunshine Punch contain more than 6 tspns (30.5g) of sugar per 250ml. box.
Artificial colours sunset yellow( 110), quinoline yellow (104), carmoisine (122), allura red AC (129), tartrazine (102) and ponceau 4R (124) in particular have been cited as additives that children showing signs of hyperactivity should avoid. GLO Orange Mango, Berry Blast, Apple Mango and Orange varieties and POP TOP Orange and Wild Berries varieties each contains one or more of these colours.
It's now mandatory in the European Union for food and drinks containing any of these six colours to be
labelled with the warning: "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." And the UK's Food Standards Agency actively encourages the food industry to participate in a voluntary ban of these colours in foods.
WE NEED THIS LABELLING IN AUSTRALIA.
(to be cont)
Filtered water in a BPA free bottle is a wise choice but should you wish to include a popper I will discuss my findings to date & follow through with a 2nd post.
It's best to stay away from the fruit drinks. They contain minimal juice (max. 40%) and added sugar. Golden Circle Pineapple and Golden Circle Sunshine Punch contain more than 6 tspns (30.5g) of sugar per 250ml. box.
Artificial colours sunset yellow( 110), quinoline yellow (104), carmoisine (122), allura red AC (129), tartrazine (102) and ponceau 4R (124) in particular have been cited as additives that children showing signs of hyperactivity should avoid. GLO Orange Mango, Berry Blast, Apple Mango and Orange varieties and POP TOP Orange and Wild Berries varieties each contains one or more of these colours.
It's now mandatory in the European Union for food and drinks containing any of these six colours to be
labelled with the warning: "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." And the UK's Food Standards Agency actively encourages the food industry to participate in a voluntary ban of these colours in foods.
WE NEED THIS LABELLING IN AUSTRALIA.
(to be cont)
Tuesday, 5 February 2013
U.S.A.- new Coca-Cola ad campaign
This You Tube clip is amazing- it does what I would like to do to many of our television advertisements which promote the supposed health benefits of their 'immortal food-like substances'.
The translation is enacted by The Centre for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI).
The Coca-Cola ad campaign focuses on the mistaken belief that beating obesity is a matter of counting calories. This theory has been found to be false. All calories are NOT the same, and obesity is the result of consuming too many of the wrong type of calories.Carbohydrates (fructose and grains) affect the hormone insulin and leptin, which are very potent fat regulators. Fats and proteins affect insulin to a far lesser degree.
It's not just the soft drinks with fructose in them that consumers need to avoid.
Research published in 2011 found that people who drank two or more diet drinks a day experienced waist size increases that were six times greater than those of people who didn't drink diet drinks!
Coming together: translated
The translation is enacted by The Centre for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI).
The Coca-Cola ad campaign focuses on the mistaken belief that beating obesity is a matter of counting calories. This theory has been found to be false. All calories are NOT the same, and obesity is the result of consuming too many of the wrong type of calories.Carbohydrates (fructose and grains) affect the hormone insulin and leptin, which are very potent fat regulators. Fats and proteins affect insulin to a far lesser degree.
It's not just the soft drinks with fructose in them that consumers need to avoid.
Research published in 2011 found that people who drank two or more diet drinks a day experienced waist size increases that were six times greater than those of people who didn't drink diet drinks!
Coming together: translated
Sunday, 3 February 2013
MILO Wholegrain Cereal
Before you pack the school lunch box it's imperative that your children eat a nutritious breakfast that will give them the energy to keep going & learning until morning tea ( in some schools this can be as late as 11.00a.m).
The reformulated Milo cereal promises alot but, lets see if it delivers: manufacturers claim that it is a 'nutritious energy cereal, now better 4 you, the goodness of wholegrain with 10 essential vitamins and minerals'; 'it contains more fibre' and a 'great balance of carbohydrates to get your kids going'.
The top 3 ingredients are wholegrain cereal 53% ( wheat 36%, corn 17%);
sugar(29.5g per 100g), & Milo (10%).
Added vitamins, malt extract ( a form of MSG), sunflower oil, soy lecithin, flavours (MSG), & salt (125mg per 100g) are the remaining ingredients.
Rosemary Stanton states: "Milo cereal piggy-backs on a national fondness for Milo, but with its high sugar content it cannot claim any superior moral ground for good nutrition even though the pack says it is 'now better 4 you'."
Fresh fruit will give your children a much better start to their day. If you would prefer to provide a cereal try Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids (Wholegrain wheat (96%), raw sugar, minerals.)
The reformulated Milo cereal promises alot but, lets see if it delivers: manufacturers claim that it is a 'nutritious energy cereal, now better 4 you, the goodness of wholegrain with 10 essential vitamins and minerals'; 'it contains more fibre' and a 'great balance of carbohydrates to get your kids going'.
The top 3 ingredients are wholegrain cereal 53% ( wheat 36%, corn 17%);
sugar(29.5g per 100g), & Milo (10%).
Added vitamins, malt extract ( a form of MSG), sunflower oil, soy lecithin, flavours (MSG), & salt (125mg per 100g) are the remaining ingredients.
Rosemary Stanton states: "Milo cereal piggy-backs on a national fondness for Milo, but with its high sugar content it cannot claim any superior moral ground for good nutrition even though the pack says it is 'now better 4 you'."
Fresh fruit will give your children a much better start to their day. If you would prefer to provide a cereal try Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids (Wholegrain wheat (96%), raw sugar, minerals.)
Saturday, 2 February 2013
GMO A Go Go
This is so worth watching - takes only 9.23mins of your time after which you will be up to date with what is going on in the 'seed business'.
Two months ago I read a book called,' The World according to Monsanto'. This animated video clip sums the entire book up to a 't'. Could of saved myself alot of reading time! Now I realize it's only been up a couple of days! Enjoy- pass it on.
Two months ago I read a book called,' The World according to Monsanto'. This animated video clip sums the entire book up to a 't'. Could of saved myself alot of reading time! Now I realize it's only been up a couple of days! Enjoy- pass it on.
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