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Are You Still Storing Fruits And Veggies In The Fridge In Plastic Wraps? Stop Now!

Are You Still Storing Fruits And Veggies In The Fridge In Plastic Wraps? Stop Now!

News185 days ago
Do you buy fruits and vegetables from the market and store them in plastic bags in the fridge? This isn't just a common habit in Indian households, it's a practice seen across the globe. However, you might be surprised to know that this everyday habit could be putting your health at risk. (News18 Telugu)
A recent study has found that storing food in plastic containers or bags may lead to the release of microplastic and nanoplastic particles. Published in the journal NPJ Science of Food, the research explains how repeated opening and closing of plastic containers can release microscopic plastic fragments, which then dissolve into the food or drink stored inside. (News18 Telugu)
Plastic is present in almost everything we use from packaging to kitchen tools. This has led to microplastics gradually entering our food, water, and surroundings. Once consumed, these tiny particles can pass through tissues, enter the bloodstream, and spread throughout the body, including vital organs. (News18 Telugu)
According to the study, microplastics have been found in human blood, lungs, and even the brain. Shockingly, around 80% of people tested were found to have microplastics in their bloodstream. Another report also showed that about 58% of people had microplastic particles in their arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. (News18 Telugu)
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A simple solution to this triggering problem is to stop using plastic bags for storing fruits and vegetables. Instead, switch to mesh or cotton bags, stainless steel containers, or baskets made from natural materials. These are not only safer but also more eco-friendly. (News18 Telugu)
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What exactly is maltodextrin? Why it's in most of your favourite packaged snacks
What exactly is maltodextrin? Why it's in most of your favourite packaged snacks

Time of India

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  • Time of India

What exactly is maltodextrin? Why it's in most of your favourite packaged snacks

You've probably eaten maltodextrin today — maybe more than once — without even realising it. It's one of those invisible ingredients hiding on the back of nearly every processed food label in India. Chips, biscuits, instant soups, drink powders, ready mixes, even some of those 'healthy' energy bars — they all have it. It's not a buzzword, not a flavour, and definitely not something most people talk about. But it's everywhere. So, what is maltodextrin? It's a fine, white powder made from starch — usually corn, rice, wheat, or potato. It doesn't taste sweet like sugar, but it's still a carb. And a highly processed one at that. It's not added for flavour. Maltodextrin is used to thicken, blend, preserve, and stabilise. It gives sauces a smooth texture, keeps dry mixes from clumping, helps snacks stay crisp, and makes powders dissolve better. Basically, it helps processed food behave the way we expect it to. That's why you'll find it in everything from protein powders to masala mixes. It's cheap, neutral-tasting, and extremely functional — a favourite for manufacturers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Is it safe? Yes, technically. It's approved by the FSSAI and global food authorities. In small amounts, it's not considered dangerous. But here's where it gets tricky: it has a very high glycaemic index — even higher than table sugar. That means it can spike your blood sugar quickly, which isn't great news if you have diabetes, insulin resistance, or are just trying to eat a little smarter. It's not toxic, but it's not bringing anything useful to the table either — no vitamins, no minerals, no fibre. It's just a processed carb doing its behind-the-scenes job in your snack. Why is it in so many Indian snacks? Because it works. Our packaged foods — especially namkeens, powdered chutneys, masala mixes, ready-to-fry snacks, and drink powders — need to stay shelf-stable and survive our weather. Maltodextrin helps with that. It keeps things crispy, smooth, dry, or pourable, depending on the need. Plus, it hides well. Since it doesn't technically count as 'sugar,' it shows up even in products that claim to be sugar-free or low-fat. So even when the label looks clean, maltodextrin might still be there, quietly doing its job. Should you avoid it altogether? Not really. It's not poison — but it's also not something you want in every single meal. Like most food additives, the problem isn't one bite. It's when your diet is full of processed foods and snacks that include it in every form. That's when it starts adding up, especially if you're trying to manage your blood sugar, inflammation, or overall energy levels. Your best bet? Check the label. If it's there in a snack you enjoy occasionally, fine. But if it's in your daily breakfast, lunch, snacks, and post-workout shake — maybe rethink a few things. At the end of the day, maltodextrin is one of those ingredients that reminds us why real food matters. It's not scary. It's just a shortcut — one that works for food companies, but doesn't do much for you. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister calls for Indianisation of industry
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister calls for Indianisation of industry

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Andhra Pradesh Health Minister calls for Indianisation of industry

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Is it okay to eat mango at night? Here's what happens
Is it okay to eat mango at night? Here's what happens

Time of India

time3 hours ago

  • Time of India

Is it okay to eat mango at night? Here's what happens

There's something about mangoes that just feels like a reward. Ripe, juicy, sweet — they're the kind of fruit that turns a regular day into something worth remembering. But while most of us enjoy mangoes in the daytime, especially during the sweltering Indian summers, the question often comes up: Can you eat mangoes at night? Or is that a bad idea waiting to happen? Scroll down to find out. .. The late-night mango dilemma Let's be honest — late-night fruit cravings are real. And if there's leftover aam in the fridge, it's hard not to sneak a slice or two. But mangoes have built a bit of a reputation. Some say they're too 'heaty,' some say they spike sugar levels, others worry about digestion. So what's the truth? Night mango myths: busted or true? Turns out, eating mango at night isn't as big a deal as people make it out to be. Your body doesn't have a rule that says mangoes are only meant for the day. What really matters is how much you're eating and what you're eating it with. That said, in traditional systems like Ayurveda and Unani, mango is considered a heaty food. This has nothing to do with temperature, but with how it affects your body's internal energy. Because mango is sweet, dense and high in natural sugar, it's believed to increase pitta, or body heat. When eaten in excess, especially in hot weather or after a heavy or spicy meal before sleeping, it can lead to things like skin breakouts, increased thirst, restlessness or even loose motions in some people. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, play this game for 1 minute Navy Quest Undo Heavy dinners + mangoes = not ideal If you've just had a heavy dinner and top it off with two mangoes, your body's going to struggle, sure. But a few slices after a light meal? That's not only okay- it can actually be beneficial. Mangoes are rich in vitamin C, help with iron absorption, and have a decent amount of fibre, which supports digestion. That means your gut doesn't go into panic mode just because the clock strikes 10. Mangoes can lift your mood — even at night Plus, mangoes have natural sugars like fructose and glucose that can lift your mood pretty quickly. If you've had a long, annoying day, a few pieces of mango might actually help you feel calmer. They also have tryptophan, which your body uses to make serotonin — that's the stuff that helps you relax and sleep better. Hydrating, cooling and surprisingly soothing And let's not ignore the fact that mangoes are hydrating. During hot nights, especially in humid cities, a few cold mango cubes can actually help replenish fluid loss and cool your system slightly — provided you're not eating them straight after a spicy or oily meal. Soak your mango: the old-school trick that works There's also a little trick to make nighttime mango-eating more gut-friendly: soak the mango in water for a while before cutting it. This traditional hack helps 'calm' its heat and reduce the chance of any bloating. Ayurveda's been saying this for years — and while it's not scientifically proven, many mango-lovers swear by it. Don't overdo it, and you're fine Of course, portion matters. Going overboard can overload your system and disturb your sleep, especially if you're sensitive to sugar. But if you're keeping it mindful — maybe half a mango or a few cubes after dinner — there's no rule that says you must stop at sunset. The verdict: Mango at night is totally okay So if you've been feeling guilty about that post-dinner mango moment, don't. Eating mango at night isn't going to mess up your health. Just don't overdo it, keep it light, and maybe skip chasing it with something heavy like ice cream. Your body will be just fine. In the end, mango isn't the villain here. It's a seasonal treat, a nostalgic joy, and when eaten right — even at night — it does more good than harm. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !

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