For most people who are trying to eat a bit healthier, wraps are a great alternative. We are also one of these people, up until we discovered the truth behind wraps. Little did we know, they are not as healthy as they seem. In this episode, we will bust this myth and talk about the harsh realities of wraps, and the additives that you should look out for.

The problem with wraps

Before going additive-free, we used to think that wraps are a healthy option. Especially the spinach wrap, thinking they contained real spinach. However, after much research and understanding, we’ve learned that many popular brands on the supermarket shelves do not actually contain spinach. And even if they do, it’s less than 1% and is written on the label as a ‘spinach and herb seasoning’.

Instead, the green colour of many wraps is due to food colouring, specifically yellow 102 and food color number 133. This is why it’s super important for consumers to check the ingredients of products before buying them. You can also use our additive-free lifestyle app to detect additives instantly.

Side effects of food colouring

Because of the scarcity of spinach found in spinach wraps, they rely on two additives to make the color green.

  • Additive 102 (Tartrazine): Linked to behavioural issues in children, like hyperactivity, restlessness, and aggressive behavior.
  • Additive 133 (Brilliant Blue): Associated with potential cancer risks.

Even plain white wraps can have preservatives 282 and 200 that are heavily linked to behavioral issues, headaches, skin irritations, asthma, learning difficulties, irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbance.

The best way to avoid these additives is to make your own wraps at home. You can use flour, water, oil or butter, baby spinach, and salt. You can find our spinach wraps recipe HERE.

Say no to artificial sweetener

Low-carb wraps might sound like a dream, but they come with their own set of issues. Many contain additive 955 (sucralose), an artificial sweetener that’s not only unhealthy but also highly addictive.  Research conducted on animals shows that sucralose can also increase inflammation in the body and may cause diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, and crohn’s disease.

Take control of your food

I know often we are after the quick solution. We are all busy with our lives, and juggling a lot. But if all we do is buy pre-packed meals, our kids won’t know how to eat real food. It’s crucial to understand where our food comes from and share this information with our kids. Understanding them is the first step to making the right choices.  The choices we make today shape our health and the health of our loved ones tomorrow. By being informed and making conscious decisions, we can pave the way for a healthier future.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with friends and family. Together, we can spread awareness and help others make informed food choices. Remember, knowledge is not just power; it’s the key to a healthier life. Stay tuned for more eye-opening episodes!

Much love,
Jo & Tracey x