Category: Natural foods

Hydroxyapatite is the primary mineral component of human teeth and bones, comprising up to 97% of enamel. Despite its critical role, hydroxyapatite is not found in fruits in its natural, isolated form, and direct food sources are almost exclusively animal-based.

Sun-dried raisins, created by naturally drying grapes in the sun, contain concentrated levels of nutrients and natural sugars, making them a dense source of energy. This process gives them a dark color and a chewy texture, but does it truly make this classic snack a healthy choice, or is the high sugar content a cause for concern?

While many palm fruits are known for their commercial value, the fruit of the ubiquitous queen palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) is often overlooked, despite being edible. The benefits of queen palm fruit include its content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can be extracted for various culinary uses.

While many consumers assume that wild honey is inherently pure and untouched by human interference, research shows that purity is not always guaranteed. Bees foraging in contaminated environments can transfer pesticides, heavy metals, and other pollutants into their honey. This raises a critical question for many health-conscious consumers: Is wild honey pure honey?

According to the UMF Honey Association, the market for genuine Manuka honey is highly valuable due to its scarcity and unique properties. However, not all Manuka honey is the same, leading to confusion when differentiating between standard Manuka honey and its raw counterpart.

While often discarded as waste, melon seeds possess high functional and nutritional potential, with scientific research indicating they contain bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. These tiny kernels are packed with nutrients that may provide a host of health benefits beyond their moderate anti-inflammatory effects.

Did you know that many popular gummy bear brands now rely on natural ingredients rather than artificial colorings like Red Dye 40? For those concerned about synthetic food dyes, numerous manufacturers are creating delicious and vibrant gummy bears without red dye 40, using extracts from fruits and vegetables.

While most see purple star thistle as an invasive weed, beekeepers recognize it as a prolific and highly-prized source for one of the world's most distinct-tasting honeys. Harvested from the nectar of *Centaurea calcitrapa* flowers, this specialty honey offers an unparalleled flavor profile and a host of potential health benefits.

While many people perceive sea salt as a healthier alternative, a 2019 survey by the American Heart Association showed a majority mistakenly believed sea salt has less sodium than table salt. The truth is more nuanced, and understanding whether all sea salt is mineral salt requires exploring its origin, production, and composition.

While most people are familiar with maple syrup, many are unaware that the clear, watery substance it comes from is packed with nutrients. This begs the question: does tree sap have nutritional value? The short answer is yes, with certain tree saps containing a variety of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that can offer health benefits.