- What's Really in Your Bottled Water?
Consumer Reports tested 47 bottled water brands (35 noncarbonated and 12 carbonated) for heavy metals and toxic PFAS ("forever chemicals"). Here's what they found:
Key Findings
PFAS Levels in Bottled Water
- PF…
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- The Plastic Chemicals Hiding in Your Food??
Consumer Reports (CR) tested nearly 100 foods and found widespread contamination with plasticizers like phthalates and bisphenols, chemicals linked to serious health risks. Here's what you need to know:
Key Findings
Wi…
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- How to Tell Whether Expired Food Is Safe to Eat
Confusion about expiration dates often leads to food waste. While some foods can be safely consumed past their labeled dates, others require caution. Here's a guide to understanding expiration dates, recognizing spoilag…
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- How Older Adults Can Meet Their Protein Needs
Why Protein Is Important for Older Adults
Maintains Muscle Mass: Helps counteract the 30-50% muscle loss experienced between ages 40-80.
Supports Body Functions: Aids in hormone production, enzyme activity, and neuro…
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- 5 Dangerous Ingredients in Food That Shouldn't Be There
Some food additives allowed in the U.S. have been linked to serious health concerns but remain prevalent in common products. Here’s what you need to know:
The Ingredients and Their Uses
Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)…
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- The Truth About Protein Drinks
Protein is vital for health, but the popular powders and drinks often come with drawbacks. Here’s what you should know before incorporating them into your diet.
Do You Need Protein Drinks?
Daily Protein Needs:
Adu…
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- Which Food to Buy Organic and How to Spend Less When You Do
Buying organic food offers health and environmental benefits, but it can be pricey. Here’s how to prioritize organic purchases and save money while doing so.
Why Choose Organic?
Pesticide Reduction:
- Organic foo…
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- Is Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Good for You?
Rotisserie chicken is convenient, flavorful, and affordable, but it’s not always the healthiest choice. Consumer Reports evaluated rotisserie chickens from various retailers to uncover what’s really in that golden-brown…
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- The Differences Between Ice Cream, Frozen Custard, Gelato, and Soft Serve
1. Ice Cream
Ingredients: Milk, cream, sugar, and less than 1.4% egg yolk solids (unless labeled differently).
Standards:
Must contain at least 10% milk fat.
Must weigh at least 4.5 lbs. per gallon (to prevent e…
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- Salt Substitutes?
Light or Low-Sodium Salt
- What is it? A mix of regular salt (sodium chloride) and potassium chloride.
- Pros: Closest to real salt in taste and appearance; works well on rice and eggs.
- Cons: Slightly bitter …
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- The Best Refrigerator Temperature to Keep Food Fresh
Proper fridge and freezer temperatures are crucial for keeping food fresh and safe. Here’s everything you need to know, including expert testing insights from Consumer Reports.
Optimal Temperatures
Refrigerator: 37°…
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- Is Dried Fruit Good for You?
Dried fruit can be a nutritious and convenient snack, but it’s important to choose wisely and watch portion sizes. Here’s a closer look at the benefits, considerations, and best options for including dried fruit in your…
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- How to Pick a Healthy Cracker
Crackers may look healthier these days with claims of whole grains, seeds, or dried fruit, but not all are equally nutritious. Here's what to look for when selecting a healthy cracker:
1. Not All Whole-Grain Crackers…
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- Corn, Flour, or Whole Wheat Tortillas: Which is Healthier?
Soft tortillas are a staple in many dishes, but their nutritional value varies significantly. Here's how corn, flour, and whole-wheat tortillas stack up:
1. Corn Tortillas
Nutrition Pros:
Made from whole grain cor…
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- How to Grill in Your Oven (Using the Broiler)
Craving grilled food but don’t have a grillYour oven’s broiler can be an excellent alternative! Broiling uses intense radiant heat from above, similar to grilling’s heat from below. Here’s how to achieve perfectly grill…
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- How to Air-Fry Without an Air Fryer
Air frying is a healthier way to make crispy, golden foods with minimal oil. If you don’t have an air fryer, your convection oven, range, or toaster oven can deliver similar results.
Air-Fry Using a Convection Oven o…
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- Guide to Better, Safer Drinking Water
Many Americans still face unsafe drinking water, which may contain toxic chemicals, heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants. Here’s how to assess your water quality and take steps to ensure it’s safe for your fam…
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- How to Organize a Pantry
Create a functional, clutter-free pantry that’s easy to maintain with these insights from professional organizers.
1. Start With a Plan
Set Aside Time: Dedicate a full day to avoid rushing and leaving the task unfin…
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- A Simple Coffee Buying Guide
Get the most from your coffee with this comprehensive guide, including types, roasting options, storage tips, and must-know terms.
Types of Coffee Beans
Arabica Beans:
Higher quality, more expensive.
Grown world…
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- How to Build a Healthy Burger?
With a few tweaks, your burger can be both delicious and nutritious! Follow these steps to grill a meal that’s satisfying and better for you.
1. Upgrade Your Bun
Go whole grain: Choose whole wheat buns for extra fib…
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