On a daily basis, many people do not hesitate not to eat bagged salads. And for good reason, the latter may seem to represent a practical and healthy solution. On the other hand, the UFC-Que Choisir launched the alert about them.
The UFC-Que Choisir alert on bagged salads
UFC-Que Choisir continues to rigorously investigate everyday products. The association has notably decided to look into bagged salads. And the least we can say is that the experts have reported a rather alarming observation.
However, salad is often associated with a balanced diet that is beneficial for health. Consumers, concerned about their well-being, never hesitate to choose these products in thinking about making a quality choice. But this is not always the case.
Indeed, UFC-Que Choisir revealed that bagged salads hide industrial practices that are bad for your health. First of all, be aware that salad bags require intensive washing before vacuuming.
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This process consumes on average 20 liters of water per kilo of salad. A huge problem for the planet. And for good reason, water management is becoming one of the biggest concerns around the world. This overconsumption of sachets represents a real concern for the planet.
Also note that, to ensure the health safety of salads, manufacturers do not hesitate to use chlorinated water. This treatment aims to eliminate pathogenic germs and bacteria that could contaminate the products during their packaging.
Bad news for consumers
But according to UFC-Que Choisir, it is a practice which clearly has worrying side effects. Chlorine residues, called chlorates, are found on the leaves. Of the 28 samples analyzed, 24 contained traces of these substances.
Although these residues generally comply with standards, their presence raises questions. These treatments cause a loss of vitamins C and B9. However, these remain essential to a balanced diet.
Despite this intensive washing with chlorinated water, bagged salads are not free of pesticides. UFC-Que Choisir reveals that, among the samples tested, only an organic salad was completely free of traces of these chemical substances.
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This observation highlights the ineffectiveness of bleach treatment to eliminate pesticides. And this, despite the very intense disinfection process. The results of this survey are particularly frustrating for consumers.
And for good reason, bagged salads sell at a price three times higher than that of unpackaged salads. In exchange for this high cost, customers therefore clearly expect a healthy product. But the UFC-Que Choisir investigation shows that this is not the case.
The UFC-Que Choisir therefore recommends favoring salads that are not packaged or come from organic farming. Especially since these products are often more economical. They also reduce the risk of exposure to pesticides and chlorates while being better for the environment.
Source: UFC-Que Choisir
