Garden of Vegan is preservative-free & additive-free.
it is important to tell you why we don't use any preservatives or additives in our foods. We always want you to enjoy the freshest and healthiest foods available!
What are food preservatives and additives?
According to researchers and many food manufacturers, "Food additives are substances that are added to food to improve it in some way. This could be to enhance the flavour, colour, texture or appearance, for instance."1.
And, one of the primary points of these additives or preservatives is that they "make it possible to store food for longer without the need for refrigeration."1
This is not the most wholesome or healthy food if synthetic additives or preservatives are required to keep it fresh or its color, taste, or texture intact. We believe that fresh, organic food is the best for you and the planet.
Are food preservatives and additives safe?
Studies have shown that many preservatives and additives are not safe and that is one of the main reasons why we don't use them. Here are some medical and scientific facts:
- Some food additives cause sensitivities and strong reactions
Per research from BetterHealth (Victoria State Government), "It is often the additives that are used to give a food a marketable quality, such as colour, that most commonly cause allergic reactions. Some of these hypersensitive reactions include:- Digestive disorders – diarrhoea and colicky pains
- Nervous disorders – hyperactivity, insomnia and irritability
- Respiratory problems – asthma, rhinitis and sinusitis
- Skin problems – hives, itching, rashes and swelling.
- Some food additives might cause or exacerbate more serious problems.
Not only can the preservatives or additives have side effects, but you might not know the issue is a result of the food preservative or additive. Per a research conclusion "Many effects like food allergies, food intolerance, cancer, multiple sclerosis (MS), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), brain damage, nausea, cardiac disease among others have been reported."2.
- Some food additives can cause long-term health problems potentially even remaining after one stops consumption of the product.
Research on various additives has shown some serious problems. For example "Many publications suggest that artificial colourants, benzoate preservatives, non-caloric sweeteners, emulsifiers and their degradation derivatives have adverse effects by increasing risks of mental health disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and potential carcinogenic effects"4
Also note, "A systematic review has established that artificial azo dye food colourants (AFCs) and sodium benzoate preservative cause disturbed behaviour in children. AFCs and benzoates in animal models have neurotoxic properties through gut microbial generation of toxic metabolites"4
So this can lead one to believe that consumption of additives can affect your gut biome which can have long-lasting problems.
- Some conditions that food additives create often are not seen immediately or can be confused by other conditions.
For example, some artificial sweeteners can cause effects that might appear later and complicate life as one gets older. Per NIH research, "High intake of non-caloric sweeteners has been linked to cardiovascular disease and depression in adults and is linked to childhood obesity." 4.
Furthermore, they state "Little research has focused on children who are the largest consumers of UPFs. Potentially, they are a ticking time bomb for adult obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, mental health disorders and cancers. Based on risk/benefit analysis, azo dye AFCs should be banned." 4.
Why we don't use additives or preservatives in our meals.
- We deliver fresh food!
We pride ourselves on delivering you the freshest and healthiest plant-based meals in Australia. So, there is no need for preservatives!
- We believe in great-tasting natural foods using 100% plant-based seasonings and sauces.
There is no need to add anything unnatural to change the taste, color, or texture, as our food is as nature intended!
- We know exactly what is in our food and want you to know as well.
We believe in transparency. We list all our food ingredients, calories, fats, and more. In addition, we clearly list any potential ingredients which could be considered as allergens. We want you to make great choices in what you put in your body and to always enjoy fresh and great-tasting plant-based food.
At Garden of Vegan, our mission is clear: to promote human and planetary health through delicious, organic plant-based meals. Every ingredient we use is certified organic, meaning it meets rigorous standards set by Australian Certified Organic (ACO). Our choice to go organic stems from our commitment to quality, sustainability, and health.
By being 100% organic, we ensure that our meals are delicious and the healthiest option available. We are proud to use ingredients that are free from synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs, supporting your well-being and the environment with every bite.
Ready to experience the goodness of organic for yourself?
Explore our menu today and discover the delicious, nourishing meals we've created just for you. In addition to full organic meals, we offer 100% organic sides, pantry items, desserts, soups, and much more. Let's work together to make a positive impact, one organic bite at a time!
Let's continue to grow, learn, and make a difference—together!
Stay Organic. Stay Healthy. Stay Inspired.
#OrganicAwarenessMonth #GardenofVegan #EatOrganic #SupportLocalFarmers
References:
1. The effects of food additives and preservatives - ReAgent
2. EFFECTS OF FOOD ADDITIVES AND PRESERVATIVES ON MAN-A REVIEW - ResearchGate
3. Food additives - BetterHealth Channel
4. Artificial food additives: hazardous to long-term health - NIH (National Institute of Health)
