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Time of India
18-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Which country is the largest producer of beetroot in the world?
Beetroots, the root vegetables that give red colour to soups and stews might not be a favourite of most people but they are highly regarded by health experts and nutritionist's for the numerous health benefits they offer. And when it comes to growing this deep red root in large amounts, Russia leads the way. According to 2024 estimates by the FAO and the International Sugar Organization (ISO), Russia produces more beetroot than any other country in the world — and it's not just for borscht! Thanks to its wide farmland and cool weather, beetroot remains a key crop across the region. While many of us are still learning how to add beetroot into our meals, Russia has been using it in everyday cooking for ages. It's a regular item in the kitchen — turned into pickles, used in soups, and even made into sweets. Its slightly sweet, earthy taste goes well with filling dishes, which is why it's so loved in Russian cooking. But beetroot isn't just tasty — it also offers some great health perks. Good for your blood and your brain Beetroot is naturally rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide — a compound that helps relax and widen blood vessels. This improves blood flow and can give your brain a little extra boost, especially in the long run. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If You Have Arthritis Avoid This Food jointrehabcenter Learn More Undo Helps your liver detox like a pro Your liver benefits from beetroot more than you'd expect. It's rich in betalains — natural compounds that support the body's detox processes. For anyone who enjoys the occasional fried snack or weekend drink, beetroot can gently support liver function and recovery. Great for your gut Beets are full of fibre, so they help keep your digestion on track. When your gut's happy, everything works better — from fewer sugar cravings to a more balanced mood. And whether you eat them raw or cooked, they're naturally sweet without being too much, which makes them easy to enjoy. Good for your skin too That glow you're chasing? Beetroot can help you get there. Its antioxidants fight oxidative stress, and its iron content supports healthy blood flow, which reflects on your skin. Some people even apply beet juice for a natural blush — that's how versatile it is. Now trending: beetroot in everything From beet hummus and beet dosas to beet lattes and smoothies, the humble beet is getting a trendy makeover. Its vibrant colour makes any dish instantly look more appealing. And let's not forget the natural food dye it offers — no additives, just that signature ruby red.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Sugar Industry Had Dodged RFK Jr.'s Health Drive — Until Now
(Bloomberg) — Sugar producers thought they had escaped Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Make America Healthy Again agenda. Can Frank Gehry's 'Grand LA' Make Downtown Feel Like a Neighborhood? Chicago's O'Hare Airport Seeks Up to $4.3 Billion of Muni Debt NJ Transit Makes Deal With Engineers, Ending Three-Day Strike After all, the health secretary had spent much of his time fighting things like pesticides, seed oils and colorings. If anything, his criticism of high-fructose corn syrup could have benefited sugar consumption. But Kennedy has now added sugar to his list of targets, calling it 'poison' in late April. His comment was a talking point for the sugar industry when traders met last week for an annual dinner in New York and candy makers gathered in Indianapolis for the Sweets & Snacks Expo. 'We've got sugar being chastised again,' Jose Orive, executive director of the International Sugar Organization, said in his speech at the Sugar Club's 75th dinner. 'We've got politicians calling it poison. We've got all kinds of attacks coming every which way, based on totally groundless claims about what our product represents.' Kennedy is preparing to release his first MAHA commission report on Thursday. The sugar industry will no doubt be watching. Demand is already under pressure due to inflation and the spread of weight-loss drugs. Companies including Oreo maker Mondelez International Inc. have already said consumers are pulling back on snacking to prioritize grocery necessities. 'The secretary's comments reflect the growing body of evidence linking excessive added sugar consumption to serious health risks, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and tooth decay,' a spokesperson for the Health and Human Services Department said. Kennedy is encouraging states to align nutrition programs with evidence-based dietary guidelines, the spokesperson added. Until now, the sugar industry had been somewhat spared from a huge decline in consumption of caloric sweeteners. While annual per capita consumption in 2023 was 21% lower than in 1999, the decline was driven by corn syrup, according to the US Department of Agriculture. Sugar consumption per capita actually grew about 1% in the period. That could all change. Consumers associate sugar with obesity, with a survey by the International Food Information Council finding that 'fresh' is the most common criteria used to define a 'healthy' food, followed by 'good source of protein' and 'low in sugar.' About two-thirds of respondents say they actively limit their sugar consumption. 'People are already looking out for how much sugar is in different foods, and if you have a health secretary making comments about sugar, that adds to the awareness,' said Stephen Geldart, the head of analysis at sugar trader Czarnikow. In Indianapolis, candy makers defended themselves, albeit in a more reserved manner. Companies repeated that their sweet treats should have a place in American diets as long as they are consumed in moderation. 'It's a sweet indulgence that you have once in a while,' said Matthew Nourmand, the chief marketing officer and partner at Long Island-based food distributor Galil Brands who says he doesn't necessarily disagree with Kennedy's broader stance on sugar. 'When you consume it like that, there's nothing wrong with it.' Sugar, produced from cane or beets, is one of those ingredients that 'can't be banned,' Kennedy said in April. Still, the health secretary's moves could significantly impact consumption. He has pushed states to submit waivers to the USDA to remove sodas from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides assistance to low-income families. On Monday, he scored a win as Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins approved plans by Nebraska to remove soda from food stamps. Kennedy has also called for 'adequate labeling.' A Biden-era US Food and Drug Administration proposal to require a simple, front-of-package nutrition label is currently under consideration — something that health groups have long advocated for, with countries like Mexico already using the strategy to reduce sugar intake. The candy industry says the bigger issue lies with sweeteners hidden across the American food supply. Still, studies show that excess consumption of both sugar and high-fructose corn syrup is linked to higher rates of obesity and heart disease. While the corn-based sweetener has been tied to higher inflammation than sugar, both have similar adverse health impacts. 'From a transparency standpoint, everyone knows that chocolate and candy contain sugar,' said Christopher Gindlesperger, the National Confectioners Association's senior vice president of public affairs and communications. 'That's very different than what the secretary was talking about in his comments.' The food industry is worried. Americans consumed 50 grams of sugar per day in 2023, far above what the American Health Association recommends — and there is a myriad of ways that figure could drop further. Czarnikow, the sugar trader, is already preparing for lower consumption. It expects demand in the US to drop 2.2% in the 2025-26 season, largely driven by weight loss drugs. Kennedy could amplify that. Kennedy's appointment 'greatly increases the likelihood that numerous positions until recently considered 'fringe' gain legitimacy,' said Frank Jenkins, who has traded in sugar markets for over 40 years and is the president of brokerage JSG Commodities. 'Sugar's not poison, it's just not,' said Kirk Vashaw, chief executive officer of Spangler Candy Co., the maker of Dum Dums lollipops. (Updates with Health and Human Services Department comment in sixth paragraph.) Why Apple Still Hasn't Cracked AI Inside the First Stargate AI Data Center Anthropic Is Trying to Win the AI Race Without Losing Its Soul Microsoft's CEO on How AI Will Remake Every Company, Including His Cartoon Network's Last Gasp ©2025 Bloomberg L.P. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
16-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Analyst raises alarm over concerning issue with staple grocery item — and it could lead to rising prices
Extreme weather is disrupting global food supplies, and sugar is just another casualty. According to Nasdaq, droughts in key producing countries such as Brazil and India are shrinking sugar yields, driving up prices and making grocery shopping more expensive for millions. Brazil, the world's largest sugar supplier, is in a severe drought that has stunted sugarcane growth, while India's sugar output has dropped significantly compared to the previous year. Nasdaq reported that Brazil's drought is threatening its upcoming sugar harvest in April, potentially delaying production. Meanwhile, India, the second-largest sugar producer, reported a 12.2% decline in sugar output from Oct. 1 to Jan. 31. The International Sugar Organization has revised its global production estimates for 2024-25, predicting a supply deficit due to these setbacks. Beyond weather conditions, shifting government export policies and increasing global demand are compounding concerns over long-term sugar availability. A shrinking sugar supply means rising grocery costs. Sugar is found in everything from baked goods to beverages, so a price hike can have widespread effects on consumers. Similar shortages — including Japan's recent cabbage crisis — have impacted other essential foods, leading to inflated grocery bills worldwide. What is the biggest reason you don't grow food at home? Not enough time Not enough space It seems too hard I have a garden already Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. These supply issues also expose weaknesses in the global food system. When extreme weather disrupts crops, entire food chains are affected, creating instability for both farmers and consumers. If these trends continue, families may face even higher costs and reduced access to staple foods. Researchers and farmers are exploring solutions to stabilize sugar production. Some efforts focus on developing drought-resistant crops, while others promote alternative sweeteners including honey and agave to reduce reliance on sugarcane. Sustainable farming techniques, such as improved soil carbon storage and planting perennial grains, are also being implemented to protect future harvests. On an individual level, consumers can take action to soften the blow of rising prices. Planning meals, buying in bulk, and reducing food waste can help households save money and make grocery shopping more efficient. Policymakers and businesses also play a key role by investing in resilient agricultural systems and reducing dependence on vulnerable crop regions. With climate challenges growing, making smart food choices and supporting sustainable farming practices will be crucial in preventing future crises. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
