Tag: Processing

Originally developed from rapeseed in Canada to remove a toxic compound called erucic acid, canola oil has been a staple in kitchens and processed foods for decades. Despite its widespread use and low saturated fat content, canola oil has become a highly controversial topic among health experts and consumers.

The main sugar in pure maple syrup is sucrose, just like in table sugar, with some sources claiming it can be up to 99% of the total sugars present. This fact often leads to the question, is pure maple syrup sucrose simply in a liquid form, or is there more to its composition and nutritional profile?

Dehydrated potatoes are the main ingredient in Knorr instant mashed potatoes, often making up over 80% of the mix. The specific ingredients, however, can vary based on the product line and country of sale, from the basic potato flakes to versions that include milk powders and stabilizers.

Over 70% of the world's jaggery production takes place in India, where it is commonly known as gurr. This traditional, unrefined sweetener is often hailed as a healthier alternative to refined white sugar, sparking a common debate: is gurr better than sugar?

The use of baking soda to remove pesticides from apples removes up to 96% of certain surface pesticides. However, the cashew story isn't about washing off a spray; it is about the natural toxin, urushiol, and industrial practices.

Raw cacao beans, the source of all chocolate, are naturally acidic, with a pH ranging between 5 and 6. However, whether a finished cacao product is acidic depends heavily on processing, which is crucial for those mindful of their digestive health.

While the raw canola seed and meal are rich in polyphenolic compounds, the majority of commercially sold canola oil has very little to none. This is primarily due to the refining process, which strips the oil of these beneficial antioxidants.

According to the Whole Grains Council, whole grains or foods made from them contain all the essential parts and naturally-occurring nutrients of the entire grain seed in their original proportions. The good news for breakfast lovers is that, with very few exceptions, oatmeal would be considered whole grain in all its forms, from steel-cut to instant.

Despite popular perception, commercial oats are not truly raw, as they undergo a heat-stabilization process known as kilning to prevent spoilage. This means that while many oats are safe to be eaten without boiling, they do not qualify as 'raw' under a strict raw food diet definition. So, are oats considered raw food in a practical sense, and how can they be incorporated into a diet safely?

According to a 2024 study, freshly squeezed orange juice can contain up to 33% more vitamin C than commercial counterparts at the end of their shelf life. The concentration of this vital nutrient, however, is not constant and is significantly influenced by a variety of factors, from the fruit's origin to the final storage method. Understanding what affects vitamin C concentration in orange juice is key for both consumers and producers aiming to retain its nutritional benefits.