With \u00a0summer\u00a0 upon us, many are gearing up for some ice cream indulgence. While ice cream is delicious, it’s important to note that it often contains high levels of \u00a0sugar\u00a0 and \u00a0fat\u00a0, making it a type of ultraprocessed food that’s not particularly healthy. However, choosing a healthier option can still enhance your enjoyment without compromising your well-being.<\/p>\n
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Fresh Report:<\/strong> The Consumers and Users Organization (OCU) has recently unveiled the findings from its analysis of various ice creams available in supermarkets. Their verdict is rather \u00a0grim\u00a0: many of these treats are loaded with additives\u2014exceeding 90%\u2014some of which are deemed \u201cnot recommended.\u201d Additionally, the ice creams often lack adequate \u00a0dairy fat\u00a0.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Analyzing 32 Ice Creams:<\/strong> The OCU’s study assessed \u00a032 ice creams\u00a0 commonly found in large supermarket chains. The focus was primarily on \u00a0family-sized tubs\u00a0 in three popular flavors\u2014vanilla, chocolate, and caramel. They examined both \u00a0store brands\u00a0 and a select few from well-known brands to gauge overall quality.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n According to the OCU, the analysis included a review of labeling, \u00a0nutritional quality\u00a0 (including energy content, fats, sugars, and overall composition), the degree of processing involved, and a \u00a0taste test\u00a0. Remarkably, the taste aspect accounted for \u00a050%\u00a0 of each product’s final score.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Poor Ratings:<\/strong> Out of the 32 ice creams analyzed, only \u00a010\u00a0 managed to pass the tests, with four standing out for their quality. The remaining \u00a028\u00a0 failed to meet expected standards due to high levels of ingredients such as \u00a0aromas, concentrates, colorants\u00a0, and \u00a0syrups\u00a0, which mask inferior quality.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The OCU noted that the poor ingredient quality significantly affected the flavor during taste tests. \u201cIt\u2019s not surprising, given that these products are heavily processed, low in dairy fat, and filled with artificial flavors, syrups, and some additives that aren\u2019t advisable,\u201d explained the organization in its statement.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Too Many Additives, Not Enough Dairy:<\/strong> The OCU identified a staggering \u00a020 additives\u00a0 in total, averaging around four per product. Alarmingly, four of these additives are classified as \u201cnot recommended,\u201d including E442<\/a>, E471<\/a>, E472c<\/a>, and E14xx<\/a>. Only \u00a0one\u00a0 analyzed product was rated as \u201cadditive-free.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The presence of fats was also scrutinized. The OCU found that merely \u00a0eight\u00a0 of the sampled ice creams exclusively used dairy or cocoa fats.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Chocolate Scores High, Caramel Scores Low:<\/strong> The OCU report revealed a pattern in the results: \u00a0chocolate ice creams\u00a0 received higher ratings compared to their \u00a0caramel counterparts\u00a0, which were regarded as the least popular among tasters. \u201cCaramel ice creams were not only poorly rated but were also found to be the highest in calories,\u201d the organization highlighted.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A Not-So-Healthy Treat:<\/strong> There isn’t such a thing as a truly healthy ice cream. As a result, it’s advisable to enjoy this beloved summer treat in \u00a0moderation\u00a0. Ice creams generally contain high levels of sugars and fats, regardless of the types of sweeteners and fats used. Your choice may depend on your preferences and dietary Priorities.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Image source: titopasini<\/a><\/p>\n