Contents
Introduction
Garlic: a mouth-watering delight that adds flavor and depth to almost every recipe. But did you know that garlic is more than just a tasty ingredient? It’s a powerful super-food with incredible health benefits. Packed with nutrients like Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, garlic boosts your immune system and keeps you healthy.
But here’s the question: should you be concerned about where your garlic comes from? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the dangers of imported garlic, specifically from China. So, let’s shed some light on this topic and find out if your garlic is safe to consume.
Why Chinese Garlic is Bad
It’s no secret that other countries produce most of the world’s garlic supply. In fact, the US imports a staggering 225 million pounds of garlic each year. However, there’s a catch. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only catches about 2 percent of imported hazardous produce before it enters the US.
Some countries have lax regulations on toxic pesticides and fertilizers used in farming, leading to potentially harmful produce. Moreover, sanitation and hygiene standards in these countries are often subpar.
Imported garlic, especially from China, is grown in sewage water. Yes, you read that right. Human sewage is used as a cheap fertilizer. Chemicals are sprayed onto the garlic to prevent sprouting, and it’s bleached with chlorine to give it that pristine white appearance. Additionally, the law requires imported garlic to be fumigated with methyl bromide, a highly dangerous substance that can cause respiratory and central nervous system damage.
To make matters worse, imported garlic consistently tests positive for toxic chemicals, pathogens, and heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and melamine. And it’s not just raw garlic that’s affected; garlic powder and garlic oil are also at risk. Even your spices and pre-made sauces may contain harmful imported garlic.
Identifying Imported Garlic
Now that you know the risks, it’s crucial to be able to identify imported garlic. Here are a few key indicators:
Lack of roots
US-grown garlic always has roots attached. However, imported garlic goes through a process where roots are removed to prevent soil-borne pathogens from entering the US. If the bottom of the garlic bulb has a bare, concave surface, it is most likely imported.
Lack of soil stains
Garlic naturally has soil stains, but imported garlic is heavily bleached to remove them, resulting in an unnaturally white color.
Sprouting
Garlic bulbs normally sprout with little green shoots. However, imported garlic is heavily bleached, preventing it from sprouting. If shoots are coming from the top of the bulb, you’re good to go.
Weight and taste
Imported garlic contains more water, so it tends to be lighter and less firm compared to US-grown garlic. Additionally, imported garlic has a more metallic and bitter taste due to a lower concentration of beneficial compounds like allicin and a higher concentration of harmful chemicals and heavy metals.
Why It Matters
Knowing the truth about imported garlic is just the beginning. It’s essential to take a closer look at where all your food comes from. This issue serves as a reminder that understanding the origins of our food empowers us to make informed choices. So, ensure you do your research and make decisions that align with your values and health.
A Note About Pet Foods
For those of you with furry companions, it’s worth mentioning that even the US has poor regulations for pet food. Many popular pet food brands, including those recommended by veterinarians, source ingredients from other countries. Shockingly, these ingredients have been found to contain harmful substances like formaldehyde, plastics, cardboard, and even feces. It’s crucial to be aware of what goes into your pet’s food and choose wisely.
Remember, the statements in this article have not been approved or regulated by the FDA, and we are not doctors. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, take control of what you eat and live your best life!
Note: This article is based on the original content by Ashuri.