An ingredient that we love to add to our salads to enhance them is today singled out by the consumer association UFC-Que Choisir. In question ? the product, less natural than it seems, even contains a component suspected of being carcinogenic.
There are several ways to add the final touch to a mixed salad: by adding spices or herbs for example, seeds, but also by varying the seasoning. However, on this last point, a product would be much less healthy than it seems.
A misleading and unhealthy balsamic vinegar “derivative”
This product is balsamic cream, a product supposedly derived from balsamic vinegar, but creamier and tangier, thicker, also called balsamic velvet.
But if we like its effect on our taste buds (and on the decoration of the plate!) the balsamic cream would have little advantage. According to UFC-Que Choisir, which compares 8 references (including one organic) in its latest issue, it is an ultra-processed product, full of additives and with, to top it all, very little vinegar .
Instead, concentrated grape juice, glucose syrup, and often caramel coloring E150d suspected of being carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
NO to diets, YES to WW!
A condiment that is also bad for the wallet
In addition to being unhealthy and processed, these balsamic creams would also be more expensive than the vinegar itself and would therefore not be a good deal for your wallet!
“These additions make balsamic creams ultra-processed foods, less qualitative than IGP or AOP balsamic vinegars (at least those without caramel coloring). However, their price is significantly higher, reduced per liter“, underlines the UFC-Que Choisir survey.
But if you can't do without it, the magazine offers a healthier and more natural alternative: making your own balsamic velvet, with 50 cl of quality vinegar, and a spoonful of sugar or honey, to let reduce over low heat in a saucepan for 30 minutes. Here you are with a homemade cream, and without any additives!
