With the rise in popularity of gluten-free baking, tapioca flour has become a staple for many people. Because cassava roots, from which tapioca is derived, are naturally very high in carbohydrates, tapioca starch is able to be extracted and made into gluten-free flour or "pearls." These are used as a thickening agent in various kinds…
As the world's most popular dietary supplement, you can easily find an extensive range of multivitamin supplements to fit any age, gender and lifestyle on the shelves of grocery stores, pharmacies and health shops alike. Multivitamins have become household staples in many parts of the world, and surveys have even found that more than one-third…
In April 2023, the California Assembly's Committee on Health officially approved a bill that would ban five harmful chemicals from processed foods, and it was approved by the California Assembly in May 2023. As relayed by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) — a co-sponsor of the bill along with Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel and Consumer Reports…
MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is one of the most controversial ingredients on the planet. While some claim that it's a totally safe and healthy food additive that can help ramp up flavor and minimize sodium intake, others have dubbed it a cancer-causing food and have tied it to side effects like headaches and high blood…
You may have heard of nitrates, but do you really know what they are? If you said that they help keep processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs full of color, you would be correct — but they also help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. So what are nitrates, and are they bad…
Titanium dioxide is a common food additive that is used as a white pigment that enhances brightness and opacity. It’s also used in plastics, papers, ceramics and paints. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers it safe for consumption, other organizations question its potential adverse effects. For that reason, it’s best to avoid…
Have you heard of the amino acid phenylalanine? This crucial compound is absolutely vital for several aspects of health and plays a central role in maintaining normal growth and development. It's also important for the synthesis of certain hormones and neurotransmitters that are involved in regulating mood and body weight. So what is the purpose…
The dangers of artificial sweeteners are well-known, with research linking consumption to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and cancer. Additionally, a large-scale prospective study published in September 2022 found that artificial sweetener intake was associated with a greater chance of developing cardiovascular disease. As if you needed another reason to stop using…
You know what they say, “Variety is the spice of life,” right? Adding certain condiments to your meals can be a great way to kick up the flavor of basic, healthy foods — making them more tasty, appetizing and enjoyable. But not all condiments belong in your refrigerator or pantry. Many are surprisingly loaded with…
It might be high in protein, and it makes a great plant-based meat substitute, but is textured vegetable protein healthy? Like other sources of soy, such as tofu or soy milk, there are both pros and cons associated with textured vegetable protein. It's inexpensive, versatile, stays fresh for a long time and is a sustainable…
