Originally Published 3 months ago — by Hacker News
The article discusses how Betty Crocker and other boxed mixes have changed in size over time, causing frustration for those who value traditional recipes and nostalgia. It highlights the importance of standardizing and understanding ingredients, adjusting recipes for modern ingredients, and the cultural significance of using processed foods like cake mixes. The debate also touches on the chemistry of baking, the value of from-scratch cooking versus convenience, and the emotional connection to recipes passed down through generations.
Van Leeuwen Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is praised for its simple, natural ingredients and French-style custard tradition, making it a top choice for high-quality vanilla ice cream with real vanilla beans and minimal additives.
Former chef Andrew Zimmern explains that rising meat and ingredient costs, as well as the need to pay fair wages, contribute to the higher prices at Five Guys. While some customers are frustrated with the cost of a meal, the chain's use of fresh ingredients and cooking methods like peanut oil add to the expense. Despite the criticism, one person believes that the high prices reflect the true cost of quality ingredients.
A new study published in Analytical Chemistry reveals that 90% of tattoo inks have unlabeled or mislabeled ingredients, potentially posing health risks to those getting tattoos. The research, led by chemist John Swierk, found discrepancies between listed ingredients and actual composition, with some inks containing undisclosed substances like ethanol and azo-containing dyes that could potentially cause cancer. The lack of government regulation and understanding of tattoo ink composition raises concerns about the safety of tattooing, prompting the What's In My Ink project to analyze commonly used tattoo inks using various spectroscopic methods.
While smoothies can be a nutritious option, a registered nutritionist advises caution for those aiming to lose weight, as it's easy to consume more calories when drinking them. She recommends laying out all smoothie ingredients and considering if you would eat them in one sitting, and suggests adding ingredients like Greek yogurt, nut butter, oats, and protein powder for a more balanced and filling option. However, she warns that solely fruit-based smoothies may not be satisfying and should be factored into a calorie deficit for fat loss.
Immunity cubes, a trend on social media, are frozen cubes made of ingredients like orange, lemon, ginger, turmeric, raw honey, black pepper, and coconut water, believed to boost the immune system. While they may help alleviate symptoms and potentially cut sickness short, dietitians recommend consuming no more than two a day to avoid excess vitamin C and diarrhea. An infectious disease specialist suggests trying the trend while continuing other precautions like vaccination, mask-wearing, handwashing, and social distancing.
Immunity cubes, a trend on social media, are frozen cubes made of ingredients like orange, lemon, ginger, turmeric, raw honey, black pepper, and coconut water, which are believed to boost the immune system. While they may help support immune health, they are not a guaranteed shield against illness. Dietitians recommend consuming them in moderation and continuing other precautions like vaccination, wearing masks, and handwashing. Making immunity cubes involves blending the ingredients, freezing the mixture in ice cube trays, and adding them to drinks.
Ultra-processed food ingredients, such as high-fructose corn syrup, soy protein isolate, and emulsifiers like soy lecithin, can be identified by checking the ingredient list. A comparison of different brands revealed that some products, like Ritz Original crackers and Breyers ice cream, contain these engineered ingredients, making them ultra-processed options.
Panera Bread is facing a second wrongful death lawsuit over its "Charged Lemonade" product, with the latest case claiming that a lack of warning about the beverage's ingredients led to a customer suffering a fatal cardiac arrest. The lawsuit alleges that Panera's Charged Lemonade, which contains high levels of caffeine and sugar, was offered without proper regulation or advertising, leading customers to unknowingly consume dangerous amounts of caffeine. The plaintiffs argue that if Panera had provided adequate warnings, the customers would not have consumed the beverage and likely would not have experienced the deadly cardiac arrests. Panera denies the allegations and stands by the safety of its products.
Choosing a healthy bread is important for a nutritious sandwich, but many breads on the market are unhealthy, lacking fiber and loaded with sodium, added sugars, and artificial additives. To find a healthy bread, look for options with no added sugars, low sodium content, and at least 2-3 grams of fiber per slice. Avoid breads like Pepperidge Farm Farmhouse Potato Bread, Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, Pepperidge Farm Hearty White Bread, Pepperidge Farm Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread, Sara Lee Texas Toast, Nature's Own Butterbread, Sara Lee Artesano Brioche, Nature's Own Perfectly Crafted Brioche Bread, Thomas Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread, and Bimbo Soft White Bread, as they are among the unhealthiest breads due to their lack of fiber, high sugar content, and artificial additives.
The healthfulness of store-bought multigrain breads varies widely depending on the ingredients they contain. Some brands include enriched flour, excessive levels of sodium and sugar, low fiber content, and the addition of artificial additives. These factors can contribute to chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart health issues. It is important to read ingredient labels and choose breads that prioritize whole grains, minimal added sugars, and natural ingredients.
Instacart's annual report reveals the top last-minute Thanksgiving groceries ordered by Americans, including whipped cream, pumpkin pie, elbow pasta, pie crusts, and evaporated milk. The list suggests that many home cooks forget crucial ingredients for their Thanksgiving meal, particularly related to pie. Vanilla, an essential ingredient in baking, and canned pineapple, known for adding moisture to baked goods and salads, also make the list.
Candy corn, a divisive Halloween treat, is loved by some for its nostalgic appeal and pure sugary deliciousness, while others find it waxy, chewy, and gross. Despite the mixed opinions, candy corn remains an iconic Halloween treat, with billions of kernels consumed annually. However, candy corn sales have dropped, and prices have increased this year. The candy is made with ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and artificial flavorings, but it also contains gelatin and confectioner's glaze, which is made from a bug secretion. Candy corn's origins date back to the late 19th century, and it is still made using the same recipe today. Brach's, the leading candy corn maker, has introduced new flavors this year. While candy corn is disliked by some, it continues to evoke nostalgia and symbolize the arrival of fall for many.
This article discusses a cherry-pineapple smoothie recipe that is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients. The nutrition information provided is an estimate and should be considered as such. It is important to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to determine your personal nutrition needs.
Food scientists share the ingredients they personally avoid, including artificial dyes, high-fructose corn syrup, sugar alcohols, and tara flour. They caution against the potential health risks associated with these ingredients, such as hyperactivity in children, increased liver fat, and the formation of potentially carcinogenic compounds. They also emphasize the importance of reading food labels and making informed choices about what we consume.
