Dried fruits can be really healthy when eaten in moderation. However, like most foods there are some ingredients you’ll want to watch out for. Certain chemicals found in some dried fruits can be harmful to health.
Read on to find out more about the chemicals you should avoid when buying dried fruits.
Added Sugar
Dried fruits are known to have a higher sugar count than fresh fruits. This is partly down to the fact that when they are dried out, the removal of their water content concentrates the natural sugars. However, this doesn’t cause any harmful effects such as causing the blood sugar to spike. It’s the added sugar included in commercial dried fruits which is the problem.
The added sugar, including artificial sweeteners, helps to give the fruits a much sweeter taste. However, it can also lead to the spike in blood sugar that sugary snacks typically produce. So, when buying dried fruits, it’s important to opt for ones which are sweetened via natural fruit juice where possible.
Sulphur Dioxide
In order to make dried fruits last, preservatives are often added. One of the most common is sulphur dioxide. This is potentially the most harmful ingredient added and it’s a type of nasty-smelling gas. It is created when oil or coal is burned and as well as being added to dried fruits, it’s also used as a bleaching agent and a disinfectant.
Sulphur dioxide is used to help the fruits maintain their flavor and color when dried. It also boosts their shelf life and in small amounts it isn’t considered to be harmful when consumed by humans.
However, did you know that just one dried apricot could contain the maximum daily amount of sulphur dioxide recommended for children? When you put it like that, you can see how potentially harmful snacking on these fruits can be.
That’s why they are better eaten in moderation. You can also avoid the issue by investing in organic fruits. These tend to avoid using sulphur dioxide and focus on more wholesome ingredients instead.
Artificial Flavors
Ideally, the dried fruits you consume shouldn’t contain any artificial flavors. Many commercial brands do use them, and you have to ask yourself what it is they are trying to cover up.
Dried fruits don’t require artificial flavors if they are produced from high-quality ingredients. Again, you can invest in organic dried fruits to ensure you’re getting something that’s healthy and free of artificial flavorings.
Consider Drying Out Your Own Fruits
It can be tough knowing which ingredients could potentially be harmful in dried fruits. If you want to be fully safe, consider drying out your own. You can purchase appliances which make this easier and you’ll know there’s no nasty added ingredients to worry about.
Overall, it is important to check the ingredients when you’re buying dried fruits. You never know what unpleasant surprises may be lurking in what you assume is a healthy snack.
