Walking into the supermarket, the dazzling array of food in front of you is bright and eye-catching. These tempting foods are often attributed to a type of lighting device called a "fresh lamp", which works to make the food look fresher and more inviting. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing discussion about the possible impact of "fresh lights" on food quality and human health. Not only can this type of lighting change the appearance of the food, but it can also mask the true freshness of the food.
Some of the foods on the market that are advertised as healthy and delicious may not actually be as good for health as they seem. Especially for middle-aged and elderly people who are pursuing a healthy lifestyle, it is important to identify these foods and understand their potential impacts.
So, what are "fresh lights"? Why are they banned in the first place? What are some seemingly healthy "beauty" foods that should be eaten less, and what kind of harm are hidden in these foods?
Exposing the "fresh lamp": the camouflage of food
In the fresh section of the supermarket, brightly colored vegetables and fruits always catch the eye. But the secret behind this is the use of "fresh lights". This special lighting device is designed to make food look fresher and more inviting. However, with the deepening of scientific research, people began to realize the hidden dangers that this lighting method may bring, resulting in the gradual limitation of the use of "fresh lights".
"Fresh lights" usually emit a specific frequency of light, which accentuates the color of food and makes vegetables and fruits look more vibrant. The problem is that this light can change people's judgments about the freshness of food, misleading consumers into choosing foods that are not actually fresh. One study showed that fruit irradiated with a fresh light generally had a higher visual freshness score than a non-irradiated counterpart, but there was no significant difference in actual nutritional value. This means that consumers may be buying foods with lower nutritional value because of their appealing appearance.
Prolonged exposure may also accelerate the aging process of certain foods. For example, some vegetables may lose their natural moisture and nutrients more quickly under fresh light. This not only reduces the nutritional value of the food, but may also affect its taste and safety.
In view of these problems, more and more countries and regions have begun to restrict or prohibit the use of fresh lamps in fresh food areas. This change is an important step forward in the protection of public health and consumer rights, and it is also a reminder that when choosing food, it is important to focus more on its true freshness and nutritional value, rather than just on its appearance.
Demystifying "Beauty" Foods: Five Common but Potentially Risky Choices
While pursuing healthy and delicious food, some foods require special vigilance because of their hidden dangers. These so-called "beauty-opening" foods may seem tempting, but they may actually be detrimental to your health. Here are five common foods to watch out for:
Glossy fruits and vegetables: Some fruits and vegetables take on an excessively bright color in the market, often because of the use of chemicals to maintain a fresh appearance. Long-term consumption of these processed foods may accumulate harmful substances. It's safer to choose fruits and vegetables that ripen naturally and may not look as perfect.
Processed meat products, such as sausages and bacon, are often fortified with high amounts of preservatives, colourings and flavor enhancers to enhance appearance and taste. Studies have shown that excessive intake of processed meat products is associated with a variety of health problems, including heart disease and cancer.
Refined cereal products: White bread, white rice, etc., although white and attractive in appearance, have much lower nutritional value than whole grains. Refined grains lack fiber and essential trace elements, and long-term consumption may increase the risk of chronic diseases.
Overpackaged snacks: These snacks are often high in sugar, salt, and artificial additives. While the packaging is appealing, long-term consumption of these high-calorie, low-nutrient foods can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Frozen prepared foods: These foods may seem convenient and quick, but they are often high in sodium and preservatives. For example, some frozen pizza servings may contain more than the amount of sodium needed for a day.
Practical advice: choose health wisely and stay away from the trap of "beauty".
Choosing the right foods is crucial in your quest for a healthy diet. In everyday life, many foods may seem tempting, but they may hide health risks. Here are some practical tips to help avoid foods that look beautiful but can be bad for your health.
Get an insight into what food is really like. For example, some fruits and vegetables are bright and attractive in color when exposed to "fresh lights", but that doesn't mean they're more nutritious. Instead, choose foods that are naturally ripe, as they tend to be more nutritious. For example, choosing naturally ripened tomatoes instead of chemically treated ones can provide more natural vitamin C and lycopene.
Pay attention to the processing of food. Many processed foods have added colors and preservatives to enhance appearance and extend shelf life, but these additives can be harmful to health. Choose foods that are not processed or minimally processed, such as fresh meat and fish, over those that are heavily processed and beautifully packaged.
When buying food, read the food label carefully. The information on the label can help identify foods that contain unnecessary additives or excessive sugar or salt. For example, some cereals that appear healthy may actually contain a high percentage of added sugars.
It's also important to know the seasonality of food. Eating fruits and vegetables that are in season not only gives you the best taste and nutrition, but also avoids the risks introduced by long-distance transportation and manual handling. For example, summer is the best season for watermelon and peaches, when they are at their best in terms of taste and nutrition.
Don't forget the charm of home cooking. Preparing your own meals at home gives you complete control over where your food comes from and how it's processed. For example, a homemade salad not only adapts the toppings to individual tastes, but also ensures that the ingredients are fresh and healthy.