Pickles are a traditional accompaniment and a popular condiment in almost every household in India. And whichever part of the country you might hail from, pickle is likely to have been a part of your earliest food memories.
Pickles have been a part of Indian food culture and history since ancient times. People had discovered a way to preserve food with salt, turmeric, sugar or brine to increase its longevity for long journeys. Even today, when commercial and readymade pickles have made it easy for people to consume pickles without going through the painstaking process of pickle making, in many households, pickle making is still treated as an annual ritual.
While pickles made with traditional pickling methods are a great source of antioxidants and flavours and help in digestion, nowadays, commercial pickle companies are using chemical preservatives to make the pickling process easy and to extend their shelf life. It's no secret that eating food with artificial and chemical preservatives has some harmful effects on our health. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at why you should consider eating preservative-free pickles and other edible items.
1. Better for your Mental and Physical Health
Preservatives are added to pickles to prevent bacterial growth, mould, and yeast and to help them last longer on the shelf. However, these additives can harm your immunity, especially if consumed in large quantities. Some preservatives commonly used in pickles include sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and calcium chloride, which can cause adverse reactions, including headaches, allergies, skin irritations and even cancer. By choosing preservative-free food, you can avoid potentially harmful additives and potential health risks associated with these additives and enjoy a healthier relish.
2. Higher Nutritional Value
Preservative-free pickles possess their nutritional value as they are prepared using only natural ingredients. Pickles are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. Eating pickles can help improve digestion and boost the immune system. By choosing preservative-free, you ensure that you are getting the most nutritional value from your pickles.
3. Better Taste
Added preservatives can alter the taste of pickles, giving them an artificial flavour. on the other hand, pickles with no added preservatives have a more authentic and natural taste. They are prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and have better flavour and texture. With preservative-free pickles, you can enjoy the full, rich flavour of the relish.
4. Environment Friendly
Many preservatives are harmful to the environment. They can pollute waterways and harm wildlife. Preservative-free pickles are often made using organic and sustainable ingredients, indicating they are less harmful to the planet.
5. Supporting Small Businesses
Preservative-free pickles are often made in small batches by small businesses that specialize in making artisanal foods. By choosing preservative-free pickles, you support these small businesses and contribute to the local economy. You also encourage the production of healthier and more sustainable foods.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why you should consider eating preservative-free pickles. By choosing pickles made without harmful additives, you can ensure that you are making a healthy choice for yourself and your family. Preservative-free pickles are also more nutritious, better tasting, and more environmentally friendly. So next time you reach for a jar of pickles, choose preservative-free for a healthier and more satisfying experience.
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