Surprising Foods That Might Be Worse Than You Think

The food labeling reform in Israel came into effect a few years ago, aiming to encourage healthier food choices. However, the fact that most products come with red markings leads many consumers to ignore them. It's important to realize that some foods perceived as healthy contain significant amounts of fat and sugar, which may not always be obvious to the average consumer.

A recent study published in the journal Nutrients highlights some surprising foods to watch out for:

1. Prepared sauces: Although marketed as "made from natural tomatoes," many of them contain high amounts of sugar.

2. Granola bars: Often seen as a healthy choice, but in reality, they frequently contain significant amounts of hidden sugar.

3. Fatty cheeses: While rich in protein, they are a major source of saturated fat.

4. Soft and energy drinks: They can contain several teaspoons of sugar per glass.

5. Processed yeast breads: Contain unexpected amounts of sugar.

According to the study, it's recommended to reduce saturated fat and sugar intake to less than 10% of daily calories. However, in practice, many adults consume over 12% saturated fat and 14%-16% sugar.

Professor Christopher Taylor, one of the authors of the study, points out that carefully reading food labels can help understand these hidden amounts and reduce accumulated harm. "Awareness is key," he explains, "The ability to accurately assess the foods you consume can make all the difference."