KEEPING a watchful eye

Anti-nutrition

Some plants have anti-nutritional factors that can interfere with the absorption of nutrients or can even be toxic.

Rhubarb shouldn't be consumed after June because its oxalate levels increase.

Manioc or cassava should be soaked to get rid of its cyanogen.

Potatoes should not be eaten once they've started to sprout because of elevated levels of glycoalkaloid (a toxin) and nitrates. Avoid storing them too long, and keep them in the dark to help prevent germination.

Soy Beans contain a natural toxin called a trypsin inhibitor which can stop proper digestion. The toxin is destroyed by proper cooking, so when using dried beans, soak them overnight and simmer for three hours before eating.

DID YOU KNOW?

The beta carotene in carrots and tomatoes is more bioavailable when cooked.

Hidden Animal-based Ingredients

While meat, eggs, and dairy milk are easy to identify, there are other foods where the presence of animal products is not so obvious. To respect your guests' wishes, double-check the following ingredients as requested.

Hidden Dairy Ingredients

Coffee creamer and some alternative dairy sources May contain casein from milk

Bread and baked goods May contain whey from milk

Protein powder May contain whey from milk

Hidden Animal Ingredients

Gelatin, pudding, marshmallows and gummy candies Gelatin is made with bone or hides and is a common ingredient in confections

Soups Check label for bone broth

Breads and baked goods Check label for L-cysteine, used as a dough conditioner derived from animal sources

Hidden Egg Ingredients

Sauces, salad dressings, meringue

Other Animal Products

Honey