The holiday season is here, bringing with it all the delicious festive feasts we know and love. While it’s a time for indulging in comforting favorites, it’s also worth being mindful of what’s in some of these dishes. From canned cranberry sauce to boxed stuffing, a few holiday staples might include ingredients you’d rather avoid. In this blog, we’ll explore five common additives found in holiday foods and share simple tips to help you create a healthier, more wholesome holiday spread.
Canned cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving essential for many, but the convenience it offers may come at a cost. Bisphenol A (BPA), a common component in can linings, has been linked to hormonal disruptions and acts as an obesogenic chemical. To sidestep this, consider preparing your cranberry sauce from scratch using a simple and BPA-free recipe.
That jar of easy-to-use gravy might be tempting, but it often contains trans fats and sodium benzoate. Trans fats pose risks to cardiovascular health, while sodium benzoate has been associated with oxidative stress and various health issues. Opt for organic premade gravy brands like Marigold for a healthier alternative.
Boxed stuffing, a holiday dinner staple, may harbor additives like BHA and BHT. These preservatives, along with potential glyphosate contamination in non-organic wheat products, can have adverse health effects. Choose organic stuffing mixes to enjoy the convenience of boxed stuffing without the harmful additives.
Frozen desserts from the supermarket may contain carrageenan, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial dyes. Carrageenan, despite its natural origin, has been linked to intestinal inflammation, while high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes have their own set of health concerns. Consider visiting a local bakery for desserts made with natural ingredients free of artificial additives. Why not try a no-added-sugar dessert? This is what we do at Tops and they taste just as delicious!
Your holiday meat centerpiece may be laced with antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, and preservatives due to factory farming practices. Look for organic, antibiotic-free, or pasture-raised meats to avoid exposure to harmful substances. Building a relationship with a local farmer ensures transparency and quality in your meat sources.
While it may be disconcerting to learn about potential additives in holiday foods, making informed choices can significantly minimise exposure to harmful chemicals. By opting for whole, organic foods and embracing home cooking, you not only enjoy delicious meals but also promote a healthier lifestyle.
As you prepare for your holiday celebrations, consider exploring healthy and sugar-free menu options on our recipes page at https://www.topsdaynurseries.co.uk/category/recipes/. Discover a range of delectable dishes that not only tantalise your taste buds but also prioritise your well-being. Wishing you a joyful and health-conscious holiday season from us at Tops Day Nurseries!
Touchstone Essentials. (2023, November). “Toxins in Holiday Foods.” Retrieved from https://thegoodinside.com/toxins-in-holiday-foods
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