Think you know all there is to know about the foods you love to eat? Think again! Check out these five mind-blowing facts about the foods you eat every day:
Your Food Contains Minerals and Plastics
Your everyday meals could be mingling with some uninvited guests – chemicals from your cookware and containers! Shockingly, studies show that nickel and chromium can sneak into your food when using certain cookware, and plastics are also notorious for leaching into meals. Gross, right?
The good news is that you can protect your plate. Opt for eco-friendly non-scratch non-stick cookware, BPA-free containers (like glass or silicone), and chemical-free cooking utensils. Your culinary adventures just got a lot safer and more exciting!
Bananas Are Berries, but Strawberries Aren’t
We couldn’t believe it either. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and mulberries are all not officially classed as berries. Even more shocking – bananas, avocados, and even cucumbers are considered berries. Cue Home Alone shocked face.
You’re clearly aghast, so whilst you catch your breath, let’s take a look at how this big ol’ fruity shocker is possible.
Something is categorized as a berry when it forms from a flower’s ovary and has three distinct layers: the outer skin, fleshy middle, and internal seeds. Botanically, strawberries are not berries because they have their seeds on the outside embedded in the skin. Will you ever trust a fruit’s name again?
Ketchup Has a Fishy History
Over 300 million Americans use ketchup regularly every year. It’s fruity, tangy, and delicious – what’s not to love? Well, in the past you might have been a little less in love with this tasty condiment. The earliest forms of ketchup were actually made from fermented fish brine, not tomatoes. That is where the name ketchup comes from – ‘ke-tsiap’ – which is a fermented fish sauce.
It wasn’t until the 1800s that the ketchup we all know and love was developed from tomatoes, spices, and brandy. Then, around 1950, it was made commercially available. The recipe was refined and it became a common condiment seen in homes and restaurants alike.
Your Ancient Grain Sourdough Bread Might Be More Ancient Than You Think
The global sourdough market is expected to reach a valuation of over $365 million dollars by 2032. You might be surprised to know that this tasty treat is not just yummy – it has also been around for over a thousand years. From Ancient Egypt to Gold Rush miners, sourdough has had a long and delicious journey. Some sourdough starters today even date back 120 years. That’s one old loaf!
The Chili Causing You Pain Could Also Relieve Your Pain
Spicy peppers like the Carolina Reaper and Dragon’s Breath chili can cause stomach pain, a burning tongue, watering eyes, and a runny nose. What might surprise you is that these scorching pain-bringers are also used for pain relief! Capsaicin, which is in hot chili peppers, is used in all kinds of medical products because it is known to numb nerve endings and soothe aches and pains when used topically. A tiny fire-breathing dragon in your tummy, but a soothing superhero on your skin!
Embrace the Yummy Mystery of Your Food
Every bite of food is a culinary adventure filled with hidden secrets and surprising stories. Whether you nosh on a berry disguised as a veggie or ponder the pong of fishy ketchup, food is definitely the gift that keeps on giving, in flavor and fascination!
