Tag: Natural vs processed

While honey is often perceived as a 'natural' and therefore healthier sugar alternative, golden syrup, a highly refined sugar product, offers virtually no nutritional benefits beyond calories. This comparison of golden syrup vs honey delves into which sweetener is the better choice for your health.

While honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from floral nectar, corn syrup is a man-made product derived from corn starch through an extensive enzymatic process. This fundamental distinction is just the beginning of the many differences that separate these two common liquid sweeteners, from their flavor and texture to their functional properties in the kitchen.

Despite their similar amber color and sweet taste, golden syrup and honey are fundamentally different products. Honey is a natural product made by bees from nectar, while golden syrup is a manufactured sugar byproduct from the sugar refining process. This distinction affects their flavor, nutritional content, and how they perform in various culinary applications.

Over 40% of the U.S. sweetener market in Japan is made up of stevia products, and yet most consumers are confused about the distinction between the whole plant, *Stevia rebaudiana*, and the refined sweetener found on grocery shelves. While the two are related, they are not the same product, differing significantly in composition, processing, and regulatory status.

Derived from starchy foods like corn, rice, and potato, maltodextrin is a common food additive found in a wide range of processed products. While its source is natural, the chemical processing it undergoes makes it a highly refined ingredient, not a whole food. This leads many to question its true nature: Is maltodextrin all natural?

Back in 2010, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) famously challenged Ben & Jerry's over its "all natural" labeling, leading the company to remove the phrase from its packaging. This incident has led many consumers to question the composition of their beloved ice cream flavors and whether Ben & Jerry's ice cream is all natural.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, adult males require at least 56 grams of protein daily, a target often met through both whole foods and supplements. So, what is the difference between processed protein and natural protein, and how does it impact your health?

According to USDA data, 100 grams of raw amla contains only about 1 mg of sodium, making it a naturally low-sodium fruit. However, the real question is, does amla contain sodium in its different forms, particularly after processing and preservation?

Chewing on raw sugarcane stalks has been a practice in tropical regions for centuries, with many believing it holds significant health benefits. Yet, given its high sugar content, many question: are raw sugar canes healthy? This article explores the nutritional profile, traditional benefits, and important health considerations to help you make an informed decision.

With commercial sparkling apple ciders often containing over 30 grams of sugar per serving, many people wonder: is sparkling apple cider healthy?. The answer is nuanced and depends heavily on the specific product, its ingredients, and how much you consume. A deeper look beyond the bubbles reveals its true nutritional profile.