If low-cost products undeniably allow us to save money, they would also have an impact on our health. A study published on January 15 by the NGO Foodwatch reveals that products from so-called “low price” brands contain more sugar than others.
Cheaper food products… but sweeter
Foodwatch studied the quantity of sugar and the price of more than 400 products from 12 food categories, such as canned peas, pestos, sandwich breads, peanuts and even pizzas, sold by the 5 main food chains. French supermarkets — Auchan, Carrefour, Coopérative U, E. Leclerc and Intermarché — which hold 80% of the food market. First observation: 85% of the products analyzed, all categories combined, contain added sugars, particularly in “products in which not only do we not expect to find added sugar but in which we simply should not find any” says the NGO. And among these products, the cheapest are those that contain the most sugar. “On average, across 12 food categories with added sugar, the least expensive products contain more sugar, while the most expensive products are more often the least sweet. “.
Avoid processed products
Among the products containing the most added sugars: sandwiches with white bread, sandwich bread, crackers, frozen pizzas, and even mayonnaise. “The conclusions of the Foodwatch survey are clear: not only is the food offer too sweet, but if your budget is tight, you will not be able to make the best choice for your health” deplores Audrey Morice, Foodwatch France campaign manager . In other words, reducing or avoiding added sugars in your diet often means spending more. So to be completely in control of your sugar consumption, the best thing is always to cook. By preparing your own meals, you have total control over the ingredients and avoid the added sugars found in industrial products. It’s a little more time-consuming but generally less expensive. And above all, it’s much better for your health! For homemade mayonnaise, for example, all you need is an egg yolk, mustard, and oil. As for guacamole, a ripe avocado, a little lime and a few well-chosen spices are enough to delight you.
