Contents
In the article below you will find out, among others:
- Are dried spices the same as fresh?
- Are ready-made spice mixes healthy?
- Are stock cubes healthy?
- What is the composition of the finished spices?
Currently, in almost every supermarket or local shop, we can find at least several dozen types of spices and herbs. Their use in the kitchen is highly recommended, not only because of their taste, but also because of their positive effect on health. They affect the regulation of the digestive tract and contain a wide range of antioxidants. Many of them have a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect. They are also believed to be helpful in many diseases including high blood pressure, heart and kidney diseases.
Are dried spices the same as fresh?
Dried spices do not differ much from fresh spices in terms of their beneficial effects on health. Therefore, the available single-ingredient spices such as oregano, thyme, ginger, cumin, cinnamon should certainly be an integral part of the prepared dishes. You can also use mixtures prepared from only spices, e.g. Provencal herbs, curry, garam masala. However, one should be careful with mixtures containing other ingredients (salt, aromas, preservatives, etc.) and with universal spices containing dried vegetables, salt and flavor enhancers.
What is the composition of the finished spices?
Even though we find encouraging assurances on most blend packaging, such as:
– without preservatives
— without sodium glutamate
– 100% natural ingredients
You should be vigilant and carefully read the composition of the product on the label. Admittedly, the manufacturer ensures, for example, that he did not use monosodium glutamate, but could instead increase the salt content, which is not part of a healthy diet. The salt content of some spices can make up more than 50% of the total blend. The composition of the product on the label should always be written sequentially, starting with the component with the highest percentage content. So if salt is in the first place, we can be sure that there is a lot of it.
Are stock cubes healthy?
Although the product can only be obtained from natural ingredients, its composition often includes substances whose consumption in larger amounts is not entirely desirable. These are primarily aromas, flavor enhancers, emulsifiers and dyes. For example, Ziarenki Smaku by Winiary uses monosodium glutamate and disodium 5′-ribonucleotides. Knorr, in turn, in Garlic – Spice in mini cubes (no artificial colors and preservatives) uses: monosodium glutamate, disodium inosinate, disodium guanylate, and garlic constitutes only 11,8% of the product’s composition.
Monosodium glutamate (E621) is considered a safe and approved substance for food production, but there are still new reports that it may promote overweight and obesity, and lead to allergic reactions and asthma. It is a substance added to enhance the flavor and aroma and is sometimes called the fifth taste. Especially popular in Asian cuisine.
Are ready-made spice mixes healthy?
In addition to monosodium glutamate, the mixtures also contain other substances whose high consumption may have a negative impact on health, including:
- Disodium ribonucleotides (E635) – a flavor enhancer, high consumption may result in the appearance of a rash and sudden mood swings.
- Disodium inosinate (E631) – a substance that enhances the taste and smell, should be avoided by people with kidney stones and gout
- disodium guanylate (E627) – a flavor enhancer, in excessive amounts may cause headaches and constipation
- ammonia caramel (E150c) and ammonia sulphite caramel (E150d) – dyes whose consumption may lead to hyperactivity and intestinal problems
- hydrogenated vegetable fat
- glucose syrup
Sometimes the name of the product itself can be confusing. Because if someone chooses a poultry seasoning, they expect a higher meat content than 0,1%. The same applies to stock cubes, broths, etc. Even though they are named, for example, beef or mushroom, it is hard to find meat or mushrooms in them.
Advantages of ready-made spice mixtures:
The mixtures, however, have their positive qualities. These include ease of use and convenience. The price is also an advantage, because for a few zlotys we can buy mixtures that will help us prepare many dishes with an unusual taste and give them the expected taste and aroma. Spice blends take up little space, so they are easy to store, and have a long shelf life. If they are in a dry place, they can be stored unhindered for a year, and often even longer.
Can you always use spices?
Spices and herbs can be added virtually unlimitedly to any dish. However, spicy spices (such as cayenne pepper) should discourage people with gastrointestinal diseases, and turmeric is not recommended for people with obstructed bile ducts.
You should be much more skeptical about spices that contain salt and other additives. A wide selection of products is sure to encourage you. After all, we will find mixtures for many appetizing-sounding dishes, such as seasoning for apple pie, gingerbread, stew, mulled wine, pizza, or marinade for pork neck and poultry. Spices are also available for less common dishes, such as Cevapcici and Shoarma. Of course, using them from time to time will not negatively affect your health, but it is certainly worth checking the composition of the product and considering whether we are able to prepare a similar mixture ourselves, having an impact on the amount and type of additional substances.
Do you use ready-made spices? Do you prefer single-ingredient spices? Which spices do you use the most? Tell us about it!