Nutritious Nuts: Two Types to Avoid
Nuts are known for their high nutritional value and are a favorite snack for many. Varieties like cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, and pumpkin seeds offer diverse nutrients and can be enjoyed daily. However, medical experts warn that there are two types of nuts that are not only unbeneficial but also potentially harmful:
1. Moldy Nuts
Moldy nuts are a serious food safety issue, particularly for products like peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and other moisture-sensitive nuts.
During storage and transportation, if these foods are exposed to unsuitable conditions such as high temperature and humidity, they can become contaminated with molds like Aspergillus aflatoxin and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds can proliferate under favorable conditions and produce highly toxic mycotoxins such as aflatoxin B1. Aflatoxin B1 is extremely dangerous, 68 times more toxic than arsenic, and can cause severe liver damage. The World Health Organization classifies it as a Group 1 carcinogen to humans.
Moldy nuts produce highly toxic mycotoxins like aflatoxin B1, which is extremely dangerous.
Notably, the exterior of moldy nuts may not show obvious signs of spoilage, making them difficult to identify with the naked eye. It is often hard to detect these nuts before consumption.
Therefore, when purchasing nuts, be sure to choose products from reputable sources and buy from established channels such as large supermarkets or trusted branded stores. Additionally, pay attention to the production date and expiration date to avoid purchasing expired products.
Consumers should also check if the packaging is intact and avoid buying products with damaged packaging. Moreover, if the price of the product seems too low or if the color appears unusual, it is advisable to be cautious and refrain from making the purchase.
2. Over-processed Nuts
Currently, the market offers a variety of processed nut products, including candies, ice creams, and salted baked nuts. A significant amount of sugar, salt, vegetable oils, and other seasonings are often added during processing.
While these seasonings can enhance the flavor of nuts, consuming them in excess is not good for your health. For instance, a diet high in sugar can lead to obesity and increased risks of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and other diseases. Excessive salt intake is closely linked to stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, and other health issues.
Processed nuts might taste better, but overeating them is not good for your health. (Illustrative image).
Additionally, some products require high temperatures during processing, such as when roasting, frying, or baking. Although high-temperature cooking can make nuts crunchier, it can also destroy their nutritional content.
Worse still, high temperatures can generate harmful substances like acrylamide. Acrylamide is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and is associated with lung cancer, bladder cancer, and other diseases.
When consuming nuts, it is advisable to choose raw varieties without added flavorings. Furthermore, be mindful of the quantity of nuts consumed. While nuts are healthy, they are also calorie-dense. Overeating can lead to weight gain or excess intake of nutrients. Typically, experts recommend a daily serving of about a small handful, approximately 30 grams.
Additionally, remember to store the nuts you buy in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture exposure. If you notice any unusual smells or colors in the nuts, stop eating them immediately.
