USA-Made Consumables vs *Healthier*?

(The original title for this post was "Could Our Food Be Healthier" but I want people to know I am going to be making comparisons. I love my country but I do wish some of our food was healthier.)

Why look outside the US?

For the longest time, I have been using some cosmetic items made in countries other than the USA. Mainly, I use a daily application of German-made Nivea cream. That's not because I was ever worried about ingredients other than that the German-made Nivea ingredients work better for my skin. Same thing for the occasional toners and the like from Korea and Japan. However...

Them Eggs, them eggs, them room-temp eggs...

Maybe two or three years ago, I started hearing more online about the differences in food ingredients and standards. I think the very first time, I paid attention to this was when a family member received a gift of some eggs from a friend who has their own chickens. I was so surprised to learn that those eggs didn't have to be refrigerated. What? I didn't even want to mess with those eggs until that crazy period when eggs cost more than gasoline... Afterward, I read that eggs in a lot of places outside the USA don't require refrigeration. (Actually, I should have remembered this about fresh eggs from years spent with my chicken-owning grandparents!)

What about that catsup, aye?

Just about two or three weeks ago, I saw something about a woman who was shocked at the differences between American-made and Canadian-made ketchup. Again, what?

Of course, I had to look into this. And it's true. Here are the ingredients for American-made Heinz ketchup:

• Tomato Concentrate from Red Ripe Tomatoes
• Distilled Vinegar
• High Fructose Corn Syrup
• Corn Syrup
• Salt
• Spice
• Onion Powder
• Natural Flavoring

And for the Canadian-made version:

• Tomato Paste
• Liquid Sugar
• White Vinegar
• Salt
• Onion Powder
• Spices and Spice Extracts
• Garlic Powder
• Natural Flavor

As soon as I saw this, I was confused. I mean, is there a reason that our version has to include the corn syrups? Is there something about shelf-life maybe - or maybe just ease of production? It seems to me that adding unnecessary ingredients costs more and maybe even adds to the production process. 

Since I got the ingredient lists from ChatGPT, I went ahead and asked the thing about reasons for the differences. This is the answer it (her? he?) gave:

Yes, there are several reasons why the ingredients in American-made and Canadian-made Heinz ketchup might differ:

1. Regulatory Differences: Each country has its own regulations regarding food ingredients and labeling. These regulations may dictate which ingredients can be used, their quantities, and how they are listed on the label. For example, one country may allow certain additives or preservatives that are banned in another.
2. Consumer Preferences: Consumer preferences and tastes can vary between countries. Heinz may adjust the formulation of their ketchup to better suit the flavor preferences of the local market. For instance, the use of high fructose corn syrup, which is more common in American products, might be replaced with liquid sugar in Canada due to consumer preferences or regulatory differences.
3. Supply Chain and Sourcing: Differences in the availability and cost of ingredients can also influence formulations. Heinz may source ingredients locally or regionally to ensure freshness and reduce transportation costs. This could lead to variations in the ingredients used in different countries.
4. Marketing and Branding: Sometimes, companies may adjust their product formulations or marketing strategies to align with local cultural norms or perceptions. This could involve highlighting certain ingredients or aspects of the product that are more appealing to consumers in a particular region.

Overall, these factors contribute to the differences in ingredients between American-made and Canadian-made Heinz ketchup.

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I'm no genius but it occurred to me that there is nothing about Item #2 above that would cause any problems with Item #1. Or am I missing something? 

As a matter of fact, the more I look at #2 on that list, it's as if the Canadian customers are getting what they want while we Americans... maybe never bothered to ask about???

Now, since I have always been able to find the German-made Nivea online (Amazon), I checked up on the ketchup. Yep, it's there. I also noticed that there is an American version with a different list of ingredients than the "regular" one. This one is called "Heinz Simply Tomato Ketchup"(with no artificial sweeteners). This is the ingredients list shown on the product page:

• Tomato Concentrate from Red Ripe Tomatoes
• Distilled Vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt
• Onion Powder
• Spice
• Natural Flavoring

So... Wait. What? 

I think my brain just stuttered because, if I'm seeing the list correctly, there is an American version of the ketchup that is as "good" as the Canadian version - if a consumer knows to look for it.

And I have a follow-up question: Why isn't the healthier version the only American version? Are there just folks out there who happen to love and prefer corn syrups and the problems they can cause?

Makes a body wonder

What else is going on with our food (for no good reason)? And why haven't we been paying attention and speaking up? 

I have never been bright enough to be the only person to think about this. Why hasn't anyone been speaking up? Are we all so busy fighting over politics and checking up on TikTok-

I just remembered. I first saw the ketchup story on a TikTok reaction video!!!

I don't know about the rest of y'all but, as for me and my house, I will be checking around for healthier versions/alternatives to the products for feeding this body. The Simply version of ketchup is around $4 for a 20-oz bottle at Walmart right now and even cheaper (both Sub and Save and 1-time buy) at Amazon for under $5 for a 31-oz bottle. The Canadian version is also available online.

Just for giggles, I asked that AI about some other pantry staples. I wanted a quick idea of some other things made outside the USA. This is what I got:

Certainly! Versions of pantry staples made in other countries may vary from those made in the USA due to factors like regional taste preferences, cultural influences, and regulations. Here are some examples of how pantry staples might differ between countries:

1.      Pasta: In Italy, pasta is often made with durum wheat semolina, giving it a slightly different texture and flavor compared to pasta made in the USA, which may use different types of wheat.

2.      Rice: Varieties of rice such as Basmati rice from India or Jasmine rice from Thailand have distinct flavors and textures compared to typical long-grain or short-grain rice found in the USA.

3.      Soy Sauce: Japanese soy sauce tends to be lighter and sweeter compared to Chinese soy sauce, which is typically darker and saltier. Each country may also have different varieties of soy sauce for specific uses.

4.      Olive Oil: Olive oil from Greece or Italy may have a different flavor profile compared to olive oil produced in the USA, depending on factors like the type of olives used and the terroir of the region.

5.      Canned Tomatoes: Italian canned tomatoes are prized for their rich flavor and are often used in pasta sauces and other dishes. They may differ in taste and texture from canned tomatoes produced in the USA.

6.      Tea: Varieties of tea from countries like China, Japan, India, and Sri Lanka have distinct flavors and characteristics based on factors such as growing conditions, processing methods, and cultivars.

7.      Cheese: Different countries have their own traditional cheeses with unique flavors and textures. For example, French Brie, Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano, and English Cheddar all offer distinct taste experiences.

8.      Chocolate: Chocolate made in countries like Belgium, Switzerland, and France is often prized for its high quality and rich flavor compared to some mass-produced chocolates in the USA.

These are just a few examples, but they illustrate how pantry staples can vary depending on where they are produced. Exploring international versions of pantry staples can be a great way to experience different culinary traditions and flavors.

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So, I already knew about the chocolate. It's not a necessary daily item for me (especially not since I'm wearing all those corn syrup pounds on my rear!) but the one thing I have known about is...

I use this stuff in place of salt quite a bit. Yes, I know it's a gravy but it works really well as a basic seasoning. I will sprinkle a bit on air-fried potatoes (like I need to be eating potatoes), on cooked and raw veggies, and on some meats. 

And, of course, I have fallen in love with Celtic Sea Salt. It's delicious and because the taste lingers on the tongue, I don't use very much of it at all.

When I find any more healthy(er) American products or affordable products from 'outside', I will try to remember to share. In the meantime, take care of your minds, bodies, and spirits. I remember something I was told when I first got sarcoidosis: Be your own advocate. And that's great advice because your health is not as important to anyone else other than yourself.

Peace

--Free