The famous saying – “An Apple a day Keeps the Doctor Away” – does not hold true anymore. Apples, a staple fruit in many Indian households, conceal a disturbing reality. In the pursuit of producing a shining, well rounded, thick skinned perfect Apple, orchards have resorted to heavy chemical and pesticide use in apple farming, Mindless of the fact that it is causing a health hazard to humans, environment and all living beings dependant on the orchard ecosystem. Chemicals and Pesticides: A Toxic Cocktail Commercial apple farming in India employs: 1. Insecticides: Chlorpyrifos, neonicotinoids, and pyrethroids to combat pests. 2. Fungicides: Chlorothalonil and Captan to prevent disease. 3. Herbicides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D for weed control. 4. Growth regulators: Hormones to enhance growth and color. Indian research reveals alarming facts: – ICMR study (2020): 70% of apple samples from Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand contained pesticide residues exceeding safe limits. – CSE report (2019): Indian apples contain higher pesticide residues than global standards. – IIT-Delhi research (2018): Chlorpyrifos, a commonly used insecticide, contaminates 90% of apple samples. Health Impacts Exposure to these chemicals has devastating consequences: – Cancer risk: Exposure to chlorpyrifos, glyphosate, and 2,4-D increases cancer risk. – Neurological damage: Chlorpyrifos and neonicotinoids harm brain development and function. – Reproductive issues: Exposure to pesticides affects fertility and fetal development. – Environmental harm: Chemical runoff contaminates waterways, harming aquatic life. The Residue Remains Apples retain pesticide residues, even after washing: – FSSAI findings: 55% of apple samples contained pesticide residues. Choose Healthier Options Mitigate exposure: 1. Buy organic: Opt for certified organic apples. 2. Local and seasonal: Support local farmers using integrated pest management. 3. Wash thoroughly: Use vinegar or baking soda to remove residues. 4. Peel: Remove skins to reduce pesticide intake. However this trick actually takes away a lot of fibre and minerals that are very useful for our body and digestion. DEMAND CHANGE Join the movement: 1. Advocate for sustainable agriculture: Support eco-friendly farming practices. 2. Encourage policy reform: Push for stricter pesticide regulations. 3. Educate others: Share the risks associated with chemical-laden apples. Protect your health and the environment. Choose organic, locally sourced apples and demand a toxic-free future. Information is sourced from following resources:: – Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) – Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-Delhi) – Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) – Environmental Working Group (EWG) – Pesticide Action Network (PAN) – USDA Pesticide Data Program Take action: Share your concerns and promote sustainable agriculture practices!
Monsoon Wellness: The Health Benefits of Organic Sprouts from Eat Right Basket
In the verdant embrace of the monsoon season, when the sky showers its bounty, it’s the perfect time to welcome the wonders of organic sprouts into our diets. Harnessing the power of these tiny, nutrition-packed dynamos, Eat Right Basket (ERB) offers a range of organic sprouts that can do wonders for your health, especially during this rainy season. Organic sprouts are essentially seeds that have germinated and become very young plants. This germination process usually begins with the seeds being soaked for several hours. The soaked seeds are then exposed to the right combination of temperature and moisture, and they begin to grow. ERB ensures that their sprouts are grown in a completely organic environment, free from harmful pesticides, which can substantially increase their nutritional value. One of the primary benefits of ERB’s organic sprouts is their dense nutritional profile. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and fiber. Sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients, including Vitamin K, C, fiber, and folate. They also contain lesser-known nutrients like sulforaphane, which has been linked to several health benefits. Monsoon season often brings with it a higher risk of infections and diseases. Organic sprouts can help to boost our immunity, making us better equipped to ward off monsoon-related ailments. The high vitamin C content in sprouts strengthens the immune system, while their richness in antioxidants reduces inflammation and helps the body to repair itself. In addition to boosting our immunity, ERB’s sprouts are ideal for maintaining digestive health. With the onset of the rainy season, digestive problems are quite common. Sprouts, being rich in enzymes and fiber, aid in digestion, ensuring your gut stays healthy and happy. Another compelling reason to include ERB’s sprouts in your diet is their potential to aid in weight management. Sprouts are a low-calorie food with high fiber content, which makes you feel full for longer periods, reducing overeating and snacking, and helping you to maintain or lose weight. While the health benefits of sprouts are manifold, it’s essential to ensure that they are fresh and properly handled to avoid bacterial contamination. This is where ERB stands out. Their stringent quality control measures ensure the highest standards of safety and hygiene in the production, packaging, and delivery of their sprouts. Moreover, ERB understands that eating healthy doesn’t mean compromising on taste. They offer a variety of sprouts including chana, moong, ragi & jowar each providing a unique flavor to cater to different taste preferences. In conclusion, the monsoon season is the perfect time to incorporate Eat Right Basket’s organic sprouts into your diet. They are a powerhouse of nutrition that can boost your immunity, aid digestion, support weight management, and more. The best part? They’re tasty and versatile, ready to be added to your salads, sandwiches, or even as a crunchy topping for your favorite dish. As the rain purifies the air and refreshes the earth, let the organic sprouts cleanse and rejuvenate your body. Celebrate this monsoon with Eat Right Basket’s sprouts, and gift yourself the wellness you deserve.