Know Your Fruits and Vegetables
Date Added: July 17, 2008 08:17:16 PM
Fruits, vegetables and herbs provide sufficient quantities of water, vitamin, fibres, complex carbohydrates, proteins and minerals. The fat content of all fruits and vegetables is very low, which is a boon for weight-watchers and the obese. Fruit markets are full of fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs all the year round. Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your fruits and veggies:
Purchasing tips
- Always buy fresh spices, herbs, fruits and vegetables. Anything that is bought frozen, dried or canned loses some of its nutritive value, so always prefer fresh products.
- Organically grown vegetables and fruit are in demand today as their cultivation involves no synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or other chemicals. This definitely increases the price of the products. However, if you can afford organic veggies, do inquire about the state regulations and on what basis the item has been labeled organic. Keep in mind that organic produce is by and large smaller than inorganically grown food.
- Vitamins and minerals are lost when the product is exposed to air, sun, light, moisture, heat, acids and metals. This means that the nutritional value starts to decline immediately after harvesting, and this loss continues till the produce is consumed.
- Use containers that minimize moisture loss to store all greens, herbs and other produce that tend to lose their moisture rapidly. No water should collect at the bottom of the storage containers.
Preparation tips:
- Vegetables and fruit should be rinsed, trimmed, peeled and sliced as near to the time of cooking as is practical.
- Do not let vegetables stand in water just before cooking.
- Cook them only in amounts that can be consumed at one meal. This will ensure that they remain fresh and retain their nutrients.
- Cook them quickly and add as little water as possible
By following these tips, you will extract the maximum benefit from your fruits and vegetables.
