Inquiring into What We Eat: Understanding the Ingredients of Processed Foods

In today’s world, convenience often triumphs over quality, leaving consumers wondering about the true content of what they eat. This growing awareness goes beyond calorie counting and sugar reduction; it seeks to uncover the truth behind the ingredients list on our favorite treats and their impact on our well-being.

This pursuit of understanding recently led Ebonie Marie Baxter, a prominent social media influencer and mother, to conduct an eye-opening experiment with a Walmart ice cream sandwich. The results of her experiment, which showed the ice cream sandwich did not melt after 12 hours, sparked a necessary conversation about the nature of the processed food we consume.

This experiment serves as a starting point for a broader exploration into food quality, the hidden dangers of processed foods, and the importance of making informed choices. Through understanding, exploration, and a bit of investigative zeal, we can navigate towards choices that satisfy our taste buds and nourish our bodies. Join us on this journey of discovery, where every ingredient is scrutinized, and every bite counts towards a healthier, more informed lifestyle.

Unmasking the Ice Cream That Doesn’t Melt

Ebonie Marie Baxter, a well-known figure in the online community, took to social media to share an experiment that quickly captured the attention of her 336,000 Facebook followers and the wider audience of her popular YouTube channel, The Baxter Boys. Known for sharing insights into her family’s daily life, Ebonie ventured into a different kind of content that day, one that would spark widespread intrigue and concern.

The experiment was simple yet profound. Ebonie placed a Great Value Brand ice cream sandwich from Walmart on her counter and observed it for 12 hours. The expectation? That it would melt, as any standard ice cream would under room temperature conditions. However, the result was anything but expected. Twelve hours passed, and the ice cream sandwich retained its shape, barely melting at all. This startling discovery led Ebonie to question whether it was appropriate to call this product “ice cream” anymore.

Her post, accompanied by images of the untouched ice cream sandwich, resonated deeply with her audience. “Makes me sick just thinking what the ‘ice cream’ is doing through the digestive system,” Ebonie commented, her words echoing the unease felt by many who viewed her experiment. The sentiment was clear: if something as simple as ice cream doesn’t behave as it naturally should, what does that say about the food industry’s standards and the ingredients being used?

This experiment, while focused on a single product, opens up a broader dialogue about the food we consume daily. Ebonie’s experience catalyzes this discussion, urging us to look closer at the ingredients that make up our favorite treats and question the potential impact on our health.

What’s in Your Ice Cream?

The experiment conducted by Ebonie Marie Baxter sheds light on a pressing issue: the complex and often perplexing ingredients found in many of the processed foods available on supermarket shelves, including ice cream. The fact that an ice cream sandwich can withstand 12 hours at room temperature without melting indicates a departure from what many would consider being “real” ice cream, which traditionally consists of milk, cream, sugar, and perhaps natural flavorings.

However, the Great Value brand ice cream sandwich contains a long list of ingredients, some of which raise eyebrows regarding their health implications:

• Sugar and corn syrup: Common in many processed foods, sugar and corn syrup contribute to the sweet taste but come with health risks such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease when consumed in excess.
• Cellulose gum, Tara Gum, and Carrageenan: Used as thickeners and stabilizers, these ingredients help maintain the shape and texture of ice cream. While generally recognized as safe, carrageenan has been linked to digestive issues in some studies.
• Mono-and-diglycerides: These emulsifiers keep oil and water from separating, ensuring a consistent texture. Although derived from fatty acids, they’re considered safe in small amounts but still raise questions about their necessity in our diet.
• Caramel color and dextrose: Additives for color and sweetness. Caramel color, in particular, has been scrutinized for containing potentially harmful compounds.

As consumers, it’s crucial to become more informed about the ingredients in our food. Understanding the impact of each component can empower us to make choices that align more closely with a healthy, balanced diet. This knowledge encourages us to seek out products that contain simple, natural ingredients and to be mindful of the potential effects of those that read more like a chemistry experiment than a recipe.

The Case for Organic and Non-GMO Ice Cream

In light of the concerns raised by processed and artificially enhanced foods, there’s a growing movement towards organic and non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) products. This shift is particularly relevant in the realm of ice cream, where the difference between natural ingredients and lab-created substitutes can significantly impact both health and taste.

Why Choose Organic and Non-GMO?

Health benefits: Organic ice cream is made from milk produced by cows that graze on organic feed and are not treated with synthetic hormones or antibiotics. This not only supports animal welfare but also reduces your exposure to potential toxins.

Environmental impact: Organic farming practices are designed to reduce pollution and conserve water and soil, making organic ice cream a more sustainable choice.

No Genetic modification: Non-GMO ice cream ensures that all ingredients used, including fruits, nuts, and sweeteners, are not genetically altered, keeping them as close to their natural state as possible.

Understanding Food Labels

Navigating the world of organic and non-GMO labels may seem daunting at first, but it’s a crucial step in making informed food choices. These certifications not only provide transparency but also promote environmentally friendly and healthier food options while supporting ethical and sustainable practices in agriculture. By looking for labels like the USDA Organic seal and the Non-GMO Project Verified butterfly, consumers can contribute to a more sustainable and conscious food system.

The Importance of Knowing Where Your Food Comes From

Beyond labels, understanding the source of your food can enhance your connection to what you eat, leading to more mindful eating practices. Knowing that your ice cream is made with organic milk from a local farm, for example, can add an extra layer of appreciation and enjoyment to every bite.

In transitioning towards organic and non-GMO ice cream, you’re not just choosing a healthier option for yourself and your family; you’re also supporting farming practices that are better for the planet. Our discussion so far has highlighted the importance of making such conscious choices in our daily lives, emphasizing that what we eat extends beyond personal health to the health of our environment.

Healthier Ice Cream Alternatives

Given the concerns associated with conventional ice cream products, exploring healthier alternatives becomes essential. Fortunately, the market has responded to consumer demand for more wholesome options, offering a variety of organic and non-GMO ice cream brands. These alternatives not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also align with a more conscious and healthy lifestyle.

Recommended Healthier, Organic Ice Cream Brands

Alden’s Organic: Known for its commitment to organic ingredients, Alden’s offers a wide range of ice cream flavors that are both delicious and free from artificial additives. Their products are USDA Organic certified, ensuring that you’re enjoying ice cream made from clean, natural ingredients.

365 Brand from Whole Foods: Whole Foods Market’s in-house brand, 365, is synonymous with quality and affordability. Their organic ice cream selections are made with non-GMO ingredients, catering to those who seek the assurance of the Non-GMO Project Verified label.

SoDelicious Brand Coconut Milk (Non-GMO) Ice Cream Sandwiches: For those looking for dairy-free options, SoDelicious provides a fantastic alternative. Their coconut milk-based ice cream sandwiches are not only non-GMO but also vegan, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

The Advantages of Choosing Healthier Ice Cream Options

Nutritional Value: Healthier ice cream alternatives often contain less artificial sugar and more natural ingredients, which can contribute to a better nutritional profile.

Dietary Inclusivity: Many organic and non-GMO options cater to dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring that delicious ice cream is accessible to a wider range of consumers.