Foodie Friday: False Advertising

When I reach for a snack, I want it to be a healthy one. If it's not a fruit or veggie, I'd prefer it to be a protein food, as opposed to a carbohydrate like chips or cookies. In an effort to eat more protein, I bought a jar of peanuts the other day, as shown below.

Based on the label, I assumed these peanuts had salt on them, but not much more. So I was surprised to see that this jar of peanuts contains 12 ingredients! (Peanuts, Sea Salt, Sugar, Cornstarch, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), Gelatin, Torula Yeast, Corn Syrup, Paprika, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Spices, Natural Flavor.

This ingredient list is alarming, particularly the MSG! These peanuts taste good, but they taste like they obviously have more in them than just peanuts and salt. I think the lesson here is to always check the labels on the food you are buying. If you see something that has 15+ ingredients listed, it probably isn't a very healthy or "natural" food. Many packages will claim the food is all natural, lowfat, etc. But to really know you need to turn it around and educate yourself. Eating foods in their purest and rawest forms is almost always best for you.

Here is a recipe for a healthy protein and fiber-filled snack. And when you eat something like this, you know exactly what is in it!

Roasted Garbanzos

1) Rinse and drain 1 can garbanzo beans (chickpeas)

2) In a bowl, mix together garbanzos, 1 tsp olive oil, and spices. I like to use garlic salt, chili powder, and oregano. But really, any spices would work here. You could even use cinnamon and nutmeg to make it a sweet snack!

3) Spread out on a baking sheet. Cook in a 375 degree oven for approximately 30-45 minutes.

4) Give the baking sheet a shake partway through to make sure the beans don't stick. I use a silpat so this doesn't happen. The garbanzos are done when they are crispy and no longer chewy.