Guar gum beans which have uses spanning several industries are grown all over the world for food, household and industrial/manufacturing applications. Today, it’s estimated that food-industry applications account for the vast majority (more than 70 percent) of the world’s supply of guar gum. Considered to be a type of galactomannan, guar gum is produced in…
Ask any expert, "What are the best ways to fight cancer?", and you'll likely be told advice such as to eat a healthy diet, exercise and avoid smoking. You're probably aware of the protective effects that certain cancer-fighting foods, such leafy greens and berries for examples, can have on your immune system and overall health.…
Safflower is considered to be one of the oldest crops in existence, with roots tracing all the way back to Ancient Egypt and Greece. Today, the safflower plant remains an important part of the food supply and is often used to make safflower oil, a common cooking oil that is also used to make a…
In order to improve the texture and shelf life of granular and powdered food products, such as protein powders and seasonings, anti-caking additives are often used. One such additive is silicon dioxide, which the ability to help prevent ingredients from becoming moist and clumping together. What is silicon dioxide exactly, and is it safe? Also…
More and more people are reaching for dairy-free milk options when browsing through the grocery store. Some of the best options, like almond milk and coconut milk, provide important nutrients — including essential fatty acids and calcium. Hemp milk is no different. In fact, it serves as a nutrient-rich plant-based milk with a creamy texture…
Some things seem specifically designed to put you in a bad mood, like parking tickets or 40-minute wait times when you call customer service. But there is another rotten mood culprit out there: the bad mood foods that you’re eating. Does Poor Nutrition Contribute to Bad Moods? Think about how you feel after inhaling a…
Few packaged and portable snacks are a good source of natural fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like iron and potassium. Dried fruits, like sultanas and raisins, are one exception to this rule. Sultanas are sometimes called "golden raisins" because they have a yellow, golden color. They get their color from the seedless, white-fleshed grapes that…
Raisins may be the most popular type of dried grapes, but they are aren't the only kind. Currants and sultanas (or golden raisins) are two other types found in baked goods, trail mixes, jams and marinades. Although they originated in the Mediterranean region and are still popular in Greek and French cooking, today Zante currants…
Sesame oil is a powerful ingredient that dates back thousands of years and is known for its ability to boost the flavor and health benefits of just about any dish. In addition to offering a wealth of antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, this nutritious ingredient has also been shown to support skin health, enhance heart health,…
Have you ever heard of phosphatidylserine? Most people haven't, but would you believe it's actually present in every single human cell? Yes, it's true. Phosphatidylserine has many vital functions throughout the body's tissues and organs, but most importantly, it's a key building block for the billions of cells in your brain. Phosphatidylserine is produced by the body, but…
