Food/Nutrition Bloopers from Restaurants,
Food Companies, Web sites and News Media
The following are actual quotes or observations (the latest entries are at the top). Click for our comments. Some of these errors/misinformation have been subsequently corrected by their source and some have not.
Apple Cider Vinegar as Health Remedy
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- Created on 07, September, 2014
Many websites and store shelves are proclaiming a wide variety of health benefits for apple cider vinegar, including lowering cholesterol, strengthening bones and teeth, and weight loss.
When Can Ingredient Lists be Omitted?
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- Created on 05, August, 2014
A local farm market/retailer packages its own dried fruit and other snack items. Many of the packages list only the main ingredient (e.g., cantaloupe or pineapple), even when sugar and/or other ingredients have been added as part of the preservation or preparation process.
Kale Juices "Extremely High" in Calcium?
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- Created on 05, July, 2014
A company that makes raw juice blend drinks containing whole kale claims that the drinks are "extremely high" in calcium and potassium, and makes health claims such as, "it will help you absorb minerals."
Coconut Palm Sugar - Nutrient Superstar?
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- Created on 10, June, 2014
Marketing materials for coconut palm sugar describe it as having "super-nutrient qualities," and a low glycemic index.
Crackers with Missing Ingredients and Nutrition
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- Created on 01, May, 2014
A flourless cracker/crisp made with cheese and prosciutto lists "prosciutto crumbles" in the ingredients, and only 4 g fat per serving.
Menu Nutrition Labeling Confusion
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- Created on 02, April, 2014
Various news articles claim that nutrition labeling of made-to-order/custom menu items (allegedly required under "ObamaCare") is a hardship for small restaurants...
Parsnip Chips Sink Ships
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- Created on 16, March, 2014
Advertising/labeling for a dried parsnip chip claims parsnips are high in vitamins C, E and K, plus fiber, potassium and omega-3 fats.
High ORAC Score vs. Antioxidant Claim
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- Created on 08, February, 2014
A new juice containing goji and soursop juices is advertised as "High ORAC... High Anti-Oxidants" ... made from berries "rich in ... beta-carotene." In addition, the website claims the juice can "fight malignant cells," and provide other health benefits.
Front of Package Claims - Anything Goes?
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- Created on 05, January, 2014
A senior nutrition editor is quoted as saying that food manufacturers "can put... any kind of claims that they want" on the front of a food package (anywhere but in the Nutrition Facts panel), because those areas are not regulated.
"35 Calorie" Popcorn
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- Created on 02, December, 2013
A line of popcorn snacks has two that give the number of calories per cup on the front of package (35 calories and 37 calories), and describes them as "mind-boggling" and "svelte."
Dietitian's Dollar Menu (Mis)Picks
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- Created on 26, November, 2013
A dietitian recommends against ordering the oatmeal ("full of sugar") on a fast food chain's breakfast menu, but favors the fruit and yogurt parfait on the lunch menu. She also says the cheddar burger is better than another cheese burger because the cheese is "less processed."
Palm Oil - High in Vitamins?
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- Created on 02, October, 2013
A news article on the growth in production/sales of palm oil states that it provides high doses of certain vitamins.
OJ High in Potassium and Good Source of Calcium?
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- Created on 03, September, 2013
An online article lists 15 foods high in potassium; says orange juice is also a good source of calcium...