Monday, January 24, 2011

Carrageenan

So I'm back to my dairy debate of to consume or not to consume? I recently heard that carrageenan is found in many dairy alternative drinks like almond, rice, soy, etc. Those that don't have it tend to be high in sugar which is something I also try to avoid. Back to carrageenan: It's extracted from a red seaweed and is an emulsifier in foods.

I've heard mixed reviews about it. Some places claim it is fine and FDA approved. I also read that injected w/saline underneath an animal skin it was also carcinogenic. Granted that is in high doses and directly into the blood system but we all know how little things can accumulate over time. I've also read that it may have MSG and cause allergies in people?

Because of all the unknowns I think I will stay away from them. Unfortunately my coconut milk that I like to enjoy on occasion contains it. I haven't been researching this too long but the Whole Foods Almond Milk pictured below does not contain it. I think Rice Dreams do not either but it is higher in sugar.
Here's a list of the ingredients:
Of course I just Googled Tricalcium Phosphate and there seems to be iffy research about that too.

So...it might be the best option to stick to organic milk or make your own almond milk but blending almonds with water in a high power blender and then strain it. I think I will stick to organic milk for the time being. Of course, I plan to drink my almond milk from Whole Foods but think I'll do more research before consuming carrageenan or tricalcium phosphate.

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