Dried fruit is one of the popular snacks during the holiday season. However, is it safe for consumption? Let’s find out in the following article.
1 Be cautious when consuming dried fruits during Tet
During Tet, you can easily find a variety of dried fruits in supermarkets or markets with different types and prices. There are also packages of dried fruits available in large bags, with or without labels. The price of dried fruits depends on whether they are imported or local, and they are usually more expensive than fresh fruits.
In addition, it is not difficult to come across online accounts selling dried fruits at various prices, with the quality depending mainly on trust in the seller.
Although dried fruits have the advantage of a longer shelf life, easy transportation, and convenience in consumption, it is only safe to consume them when they are produced in accordance with proper procedures and in appropriate quantities.
Be cautious when consuming dried fruits during Tet
However, during the Tet holiday season, due to high demand, some producers tend to use excessive preservatives and sweeteners, especially for less sweet fruits. Overdose of sweeteners, bleaching agents, and preservatives can be harmful to health.
According to Dr. Trinh Le Hung, from the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hanoi National University of Science, sulfur dioxide is often added to fruits to make them last longer and change color. This component, found in coal gas, can cause nausea, abdominal pain, rashes, asthma, and more.
Ensure your health safety by making your own dried fruits
However, if the dried fruits are produced following proper procedures, ensuring quality and clear origin, they can still be a healthy option. You can also try making your own dried fruits at home to ensure their safety and enjoy them with your family.
2 Tips for buying dried fruits during Tet
Shape: Firstly, you should observe and select dried fruits that have intact shape, normal color, and size, without excessive artificial coloring. If you see mold, it is best not to buy them.
Aroma: In general, dried fruits have a distinctive fruity aroma. If you smell a faint or stronger chemical smell, it may have been treated with chemicals. Especially, dried nuts are susceptible to mold and bacterial contamination, which can be harmful to your body.
Tips for buying dried fruits during Tet
Origin: When buying dried fruits, you should ask the seller about the origin, processing methods, and expiration date of the products. If the seller cannot provide this information, you should reconsider whether to make the purchase or not.
Taste: When trying a piece of dried fruit, if it tastes crispy and has a distinctive fruity flavor, it is a good choice. However, if it has a strange or bitter taste, it may be spoiled and should not be consumed.
3 Precautions when consuming dried fruits during Tet
The main components of fruits are water, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. After drying, fruits lose a significant amount of these components, mostly leaving behind fiber, a small amount of starch, and minerals. Therefore, consuming dried fruits does not provide as many nutrients to your body.
In addition, consuming excessive amounts of dried fruits is not beneficial for overweight and obese individuals.
Precautions when consuming dried fruits during Tet
You should only consume a small amount of dried fruits instead of fresh fruits during Tet to maintain a healthy diet.
Eating dried fruits is safe when consumed properly, in appropriate quantities, and from trustworthy sources. Make sure to prioritize the well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Wishing you a healthy and joyful Tet holiday!
8 Common Mistakes People Make with Cutting Boards
Are you using your cutting board correctly? Many Vietnamese households rely on cutting boards in their kitchen, but not everyone knows how to use them properly, especially when it comes to wooden cutting boards. Check out these 8 mistakes to avoid when using a cutting board to ensure both hygiene and safety for everyone in your family.
Is Refrigerated Leftovers Linked to an Increased Risk of Cancer?
Dr. Lam Van Man, Head of Research, Development and Technology Transfer Department of the Institute of Safety Food, has warned of the risk of food poisoning when reheating leftovers from the refrigerator. But what should we be aware of when it comes to the possibility of these leftovers causing cancer? Here, we explore what the experts have to say on the matter and offer some tips for safe eating.
Preserving Leftover Food from the Tet Holiday
With the beginning of the Lunar New Year, many households are stocking up on food to celebrate the festive occasion. While keeping food in the refrigerator is convenient, it can also be harmful to users if not done correctly. We have compiled a few tips to help ensure food remains fresh and safe to consume during Tet.