Reading List: Red Meat Gets The Green Light, Chemicals in Canned Foods and Fast Food Facts
Tara Donne, Food Network
In this week’s nutrition news: Trendy dark-colored foods are taking over menus, added fiber in General Mills products and don't be afraid to eat that juicy steak or burger.
We’ve told you about the chemical found in canned foods called BPA and how it’s been linked to cancer. A recent study examined how much BPA in can's metal lining leached into the food itself. The results? A whopping 92 percent of food tested (including fruits, veggies, fish and beans) contained BPA. The study concluded that if meals are prepared from various canned food, this can lead to potential harmful levels of BPA. Although some companies use BPA-free lining in their cans, many do not. The FDA is taking a closer look at the issue and has pledged $30 million to research it.
If you follow fashion trends, you always hear about the “new black”. But instead of clothes, we’re talking food -- black trumpet mushrooms, black garlic, black walnuts and black chickpeas are some of the foods that are appearing on menus across the country. Read up on some of the fabulous dishes being made from these ingredients.
With all the salt and trans fat-cutting going on, General Mills is actually adding an ingredient—fiber. They’ve added fiber to yogurt, soup and breakfast bars. So, does this fiber have the same benefit as the natural fiber found in whole grains and fresh produce? Studies aren’t conclusive to prove that all fiber is equal, but eating more fiber in general is a huge health benefit. Read more about the types of fiber and how much you really need.
Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. See Toby's full bio »