Do you know more than 56,000 people in the US become ill every year due to an inept kitchen cleanliness routine? It can be due to rotten food, old and damaged utensils or even the shabby clothes that we wear in the kitchen for handling and cleaning. Just like your kitchen is a place where you cultivate your health, inadequate practices can take things downhill and make you sick. The worst part is that you will never suspect that the bacteria that made you sick originated in your kitchen. So, what’s the way out? It’s actually much easier than we perceive.
Here we are again with a well-researched write-up that will help you understand the things you need to throw away from your kitchen. These aren’t healthy and in no way benefit you in the long term. Thus, it’s better to recognize and eliminate them.
Let’s get started with the food items that you need to eliminate from your kitchen:
Coffee
We know it’s your energy drink that wakes you up and keeps you going the entire day. Plus, there is research stating that coffee is beneficial for health health. However, another side of the story is that coffee consumption has more cons than advantages. Firstly, it hinders zinc absorption, which can adversely affect our skin and health. Due to a lack of zinc, you can also experience calcium deficiency. Similarly, caffeine found in coffee, if taken for a long duration, can hinder sleep and also cause insomnia.
Expired Spices
Spices add depth and flavor to every dish. However, can these be the cause of illness for you and your family? Well, if these are old and expired, they can cause issues in your stomach. On top of that, spices may not show mould growth because they have a deep and rich color. So, you will need to sniff each packet and know. Therefore, keep track of your spices. You can note the date of opening the package and its expiration date on the container. This will allow you to know when to toss these out.
Used Oil
We must not be using used cooking oil over and over. It is not something that we do not know, but the thought of waste makes us reuse the oil, which is a bigger issue in the long term. When you reheat oil throughout the day and consume food cooked in it, it can cause high LDL levels. Eventually, it can increase the risk of heart diseases, i.e., stroke and heart attack. Disposing of used cooking is not even an arduous task. There are multiple companies that take it away to recycle it. You can subscribe to them and get rid of them at frequent intervals.
Margarine
People are looking at margarine as a substitute for butter. While originally, it was whipped out of animal fats, the present-day version is a blend of vegetable oils. Despite its creamy texture, margarine can be high in trans fats. It can be a detriment for heart disease, cancer and many other ailments. Hence, it’s a safer alternative to swap it out for healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado spread, providing a more natural and nutritious addition to your meals.
Ajinomoto
Often used for flavour enhancement, Ajinomoto may not align with your health goals. The MSG or monosodium glutamate present in it can cause health issues such as breathlessness, fluctuations in blood vessels, migraine, joint and muscle pain, and a burning sensation in the stomach. With all these health impairments, the taste seems to be too dwarf to be taken into consideration. Therefore, you must toss it from your kitchen and opt for natural seasonings like herbs, garlic, or onion powder to add that burst of taste to your dishes without compromising your well-being.
Granola Bars
A quick snack that is filling and also protein-rich is what granola bars are advertised as. However, are these as true as they seem? Well, not entirely. Granola bars have truckloads of refined sugar. You can also rename these as sugar-packed cereals. As we all know, sugar is nothing but empty calories that will make you unhealthy and cause several diseases. Therefore, it’s best to avoid it as much as possible. If you need to grab quick snacks, consider making your own or choose options with minimal added sweeteners, ensuring a snack that supports your wellness journey.
Low-Fat Peanut Butter
The term “low-fat” can be misleading. It’s barely a residual peanut butter deprived of healthy fats. So, what benefit does it provide other than filling you with unwanted calories? Apart from that, a few low-fat peanut butter brands include excessive amounts of sugars and preservatives. Therefore, it’s better to get rid of that bottle and fill your kitchen cabinets with a more wholesome option that has the necessary fats and can make you healthier.
Whole Grain Bread
Another marketing gimmick that finds a place on our kitchen shelves is that huge packet of whole grains. According to Medical News Today, there can be around 20 ingredients in a packet of whole wheat bread, and not all of these are healthy. Some are additive, while others are preservatives that will hamper our body functions in the long term. If you still wish to have bread, turn to that package and find the one with minimal ingredients. It will be a much healthier choice.
Skimmed Milk
For people seeking to lower their weight, skimmed milk can seem like an amazing option. It is way less creamier and has fewer calories than full-fat milk. However, is it also healthier? Full-fat milk offers you various vitamins and minerals like calcium, riboflavin, phosphorous, vitamins A and B12, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iodine etc. Skimmed milk can, however, lack a few of these benefits and will not make you as healthy as you will be with its counterpart. Therefore, consider whole or alternative milk options for a more balanced and nutritious choice that contributes to your daily nutrient intake.
Diet Coke
It’s true that diet coke consists no added sugar, calories or fat. But it’s also not a nutritious drink, so why bring it to your kitchen? Also, it’s still linked to increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and various other ailments. Therefore, its a better idea to opt for water or natural fruit-infused alternatives to stay hydrated without compromising on taste.
Dated Refrigerated Items
There can be multiple items lying in your refrigerator. Many you’ve already forgotten about. So, take a little time out of our tight schedule and look into the pantry. Regularly check your fridge for items past their expiration date. Keeping a fresh, organized fridge not only contributes to healthier eating habits but also minimizes food waste.
Old Herbs
Herbs lose their potency over time. Spice up your dishes with fresh herbs to enhance flavor without sacrificing nutritional value. Consider growing a small herb garden for a convenient and sustainable herb source.
Now that we have an entire list of food items, we must remove them from our kitchen. We must now concentrate on utensils that also need to find their way out of our cooking area. So here we go:
Rusted Pans
Rust on pans not only compromises the quality of your food but can also pose health risks. These are dangerous for the nervous system and sometimes can also cause tetanus, which is nearly fatal. Therefore, as you witness corrosion on your pans, toss them away and invest in new, non-rusting cookware for better cooking experiences and improved safety.
Plastic Containers
Plastic containers can leach harmful chemicals into your food, especially when exposed to heat. The polypropylene and polystyrene in these can damage the lever and digestive tract. Therefore, a healthier option is to switch to glass or stainless steel containers for safer food storage, reducing your exposure to potential health hazards.
Plastic Bags
Reduce plastic waste and its environmental impact by opting for reusable and eco-friendly alternatives for storage. High-density polyethylene, or HDPE, makes food toxic. So, it’s best to remove these. Also, this small change contributes not only to your health but also to the well-being of the planet.
Blunt and Old Knives
Dull knives can be dangerous and less effective, leading to uneven cuts and accidents. Apart from that, it’s unhealthy as iron and carbon from the blunt edges can react with food and make it toxic. It’s a better idea to invest in a good set of sharp knives for efficient and safe food preparation, making your time in the kitchen more enjoyable and injury-free. You can also change your knife set every 4-5 years to avoid the issue.
Non-Stick Pan
Non-stick pans with scratches can release harmful substances into your food. The chemical called perfluorooctanoic (PFOA) emits fumes that can also be a cause of cancer. So, you must replace the peeling non-stick pans with newer, safer options, ensuring your meals are not only delicious but also prepared in a healthier manner.
Ragged Dusting Cloths
Maintain a hygienic kitchen environment by using fresh and effective dusting cloths. Shabby kitchen clothes can be the ideal place for bacterial growth. These stick to utensils and contaminate the food. Regularly replace old, ragged cloths to keep your kitchen surfaces clean and free from potential contaminants.
Chipped Utensils
Chipped utensils may harbor bacteria and compromise the safety of your meals. Replace them with intact ones to ensure food safety and minimize the risk of contamination.
Worn-Out Sponges
Old sponges can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Regularly replace them to maintain cleanliness in your kitchen, safeguarding your health and ensuring a hygienic cooking space.
Coated Ceramics
Damaged ceramic coatings can affect the quality of your cooking. Invest in new, high-quality ceramic cookware for better results and a safer cooking experience.
Damaged Sieves
Ensure your kitchen tools are in top shape. Replace damaged sieves for efficient food preparation, making your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Summing Up
Creating a healthier lifestyle starts with the choices you make in your kitchen. By conscientiously tossing out these items and utensils, you’re not just decluttering; you’re making room for better choices and a happier, healthier you. Start today, and relish the benefits of a well-maintained, health-conscious kitchen that supports your journey towards overall well-being.