
Acesulfame potassium is a zero-calorie sweetener that is added to many sugar-free…
Vanilla extract is a natural flavoring derived from vanilla beans, the seed pods of the vanilla orchid. Commercial production involves harvesting ripe vanilla beans, and then blanching, fermenting, and drying them. The beans are then soaked in an alcohol and water solution to extract the vanilla flavor over several months. Vanilla extract adds its distinct flavor to various food and beverage products. In the United States, “pure vanilla extract” must contain at least 35% alcohol by volume and a specified amount of vanilla beans per gallon, according to FDA regulations. Vanilla extract is commonly used for baking and as a flavoring in packaged goods. It is important to note that vanilla extract can be produced synthetically and called “imitation vanilla” or “artificial vanilla flavoring” which is not the same as naturally derived vanilla extract.
Vanilla has been associated with many potential health benefits, largely due to its antioxidant compounds such as phenols and vanillin. Vanillin has been studied to have anti-inflammatory, cancer, and neuroprotective benefits in various animal and test tube studies. However, the amounts of these beneficial compounds that one will consume when using vanilla extract are likely minuscule.
Health is like a bank account, certain ingredients make a deposit into your health bank, meaning they add to
your health. Certain ingredients withdraw from your health bank. We want health promoting ingredients in our diet. To keep things simple, we rate ingredients on a green, yellow, red scale:
It is naturally occurring in food and has no harmful effects on the body. It is real food. It is health promoting.
It goes into one or more of the below categories
It is known to have a harmful effect on the body (ex. All food colorings, Natural Flavors, MSG, Potassium bromate, aspartame, artificial flavors)
The Food Showdown: Popcorners flavors
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Clean Consuming: Nourishment for your
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