Killer Processed Foods

The Peanut Corporation of America (PCA), a large peanut distributing company recalled its peanut paste and butter products produced in its Blakely, Ga. facility because they could potentially be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. None of the recalled peanut butter or paste is sold directly to consumers, but to companies that produce cookies, cakes and ice cream. Health officials have linked a few illnesses and deaths to the contaminated peanut products.

This is definitely a wakeup call for consumers of processed foods. You never know what you’re going to get. Pre-packaged foods are convenient, and there is nothing wrong with that, but it’s always a good idea to be a label detective. Look at the ingredients so you know exactly what you are putting into your body. In general, try to limit the amount of processed foods you consume and opt for the homemade snacks with veggies, whole grains and fruit. Here are some recipes to get you started.

It’s not just the peanut paste that should be of concern these days. Processed foods have other ingredients that your body is just not meant to handle like, food coloring, sweeteners and preservatives. When food is highly processed, it loses many of its vital nutrients.

By adding more whole grains, fruits and vegetables to your diet, you will find that you are less likely to crave processed foods.

Until the FDA issues another statement regarding the safety of peanut butter, it is advised to stay away from products with peanuts.