Mono and Diglycerides

Ever wonder what are mono and diglycerides?  Being a lover of words and all things natural, I often delve into ingredient lists with a passion.  Over the years, I have evolved to refuse any products that contain hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup and soy isolate protein.  Recently, since my bread maker took a dive off my kitchen counter, I started purchasing store bread again.  At times, I find the convenience of the local supermarket over the health food store too much to resist.  As long as the previous mentioned ingredients were not in the mix, I would purchase the bread.  As they say, ignorance is bliss and I did not investigate the mono and diglyceride ingredient until now.

What I found is that the mono and diglycerides are added to the ingredient list to make the dough, ice cream or candy easier to manipulate or regulate (as in shelf life).  Basically, these ingredients are added for the benefit of the manufacturer, not the consumer's taste.  For the most part, mono and diglycerides are produced from soya beans, many of which are genetically modified, according to GMO Compass.  Making matters worse, this product is basically the same as an hydrogenated oil.  Eric Armstrong has researched the product extensively and is working toward educating the public and making changes in the labeling of products in the UK.  Replacing mono and diglycerides with the well-known trans fats, such as hydrogenated oils, is a loop hole that must be closed promptly.  Manufacturers of convenient food products rely on the consumers being ignorant and uneducated.  Consumers need to understand and know ingredients in order to make educated and informed choices.

For those who are not aware, the World Health Organization (WHO) advised that these oils be banned.  Editor of Natural News states that ingestion of hydrogenated oils leads to cardiovascular disease, cancer and birth defects.  The obesity epidemic is also linked to these poisonous oils as well, and studies in mice indicate that trans fats lead to cholesterol issues and ultimately atherosclerosis.  Bottom line, avoid hydrogenated oils, mono and diglercerides, interesterified oils and partially hydrogenated oils.

Here's to your continued health and awareness!
ClearSkies