Anna Edray Explains Why Cheese is Made with Few Ingredients but Contains a Lot of Trans Fats and Hardeners
When it comes to cheese, one might assume that it is a simple and natural food made from a few basic ingredients. However, according to dietician Anna Edray, that is not always the case. In fact, many popular cheeses contain a significant amount of trans fats and hardeners, making them less healthy than we may think.
Cheese is typically made from three main ingredients: milk, salt, and enzymes or bacteria. These ingredients are used to create the curds and whey, which are then aged or processed to form the final product. However, in some cases, additional ingredients are added to alter the texture, taste, or appearance of the cheese. This can include trans fats and hardeners, which are used to create a smoother or firmer texture.
But why are these ingredients used in the first place? Edray explains that it all comes down to cost and convenience. Cheese is a highly popular and profitable industry, and companies are constantly looking for ways to cut costs and increase production. Trans fats and hardeners can help achieve this by prolonging the shelf-life of cheese and making it easier to produce in large quantities. Additionally, these ingredients can enhance the taste and texture of cheese, making it more appealing to consumers.
So, what exactly are trans fats and hardeners? Trans fats are a type of unsaturated fat that is made through the process of hydrogenation. This process involves adding hydrogen atoms to liquid oils, creating a more solid and stable fat. Hardeners, on the other hand, are substances that are added to food to increase its firmness and stability. These ingredients can include emulsifiers, stabilizers, and artificial flavors.
While both trans fats and hardeners may improve the taste and texture of cheese, they can also have negative effects on our health. Trans fats have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health issues, while hardeners can cause digestive problems and affect the balance of gut bacteria. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, these ingredients may also contribute to weight gain and obesity.
So, what can we do to make sure we are consuming healthier cheese options? Edray recommends reading labels and choosing cheese with fewer and simpler ingredients. Look for cheese made from milk, salt, and enzymes or bacteria, and avoid options that contain trans fats and hardeners. Additionally, opting for organic or artisanal cheeses may also ensure a cleaner and more natural product.
In conclusion, while cheese may seem like a simple and natural food, it is important to be aware of the potential added ingredients that can make it less healthy. Trans fats and hardeners are often used in the cheese-making process to cut costs and enhance flavor, but they can have negative effects on our health. By making informed choices and reading labels, we can ensure that we are consuming a healthier and more natural product. Let’s all be mindful of what we put into our bodies, and choose our cheese wisely.
