new to the gluten free journey?
new to the gluten free journey?
A few years ago, news programs and headlines were covered with information about a pink slime that was being put into processed foods. While there were dozens of stories sparking outrage for weeks, the coverage eventually died down. What many don’t realize, however, is that this slime, or “Meat Glue,” as it’s more commonly known, is still prevalent and being incorporated into everyday meal items.
So what exactly is this pink slime and why is it called meat glue? Meat glue, or microbial transglutaminase, is an industrial enzyme produced by the bacteria streptoverticillium. This by-product of bacteria processing turns into a pink slime and is added to food for its ability to act as a binding substance.
Not only does meat glue hold items together, but it also adds palatability and increases texture. This is especially common in products where gluten is omitted. Gluten too acts as a binding agent, so when it is removed, in gluten-free products, for example, meat glue is added for a similar effect.
In addition to gluten-free foods, microbial transglutaminase is commonly found in many processed items. Taking a stroll down the freezer section of a grocery store will likely produce several items that are made using meat glue. But there are other items to avoid as well.
Many processed proteins like hot dogs, lunch meat and frozen items like chicken or chicken nuggets are likely held together by this pink slime. Dairy products like icicle pops, some yogurts, and milk, as well as dairy-free products like almond and cashew milk are also given their creamy texture from the pink slime. In addition to these, any sort of imitation seafood, like crab, or processed grains, like cereal, will likely contain microbial transglutaminase as well.
Unfortunately, the meals that are obtained from restaurants are not immune to microbial transglutaminase either. The biggest offenders of having microbial transglutaminase in their meals are fast-food restaurants or chain restaurants. Most of these employees are simply cooks who are making processed or frozen food items for the sake of consistency.
To avoid microbial transglutaminase while eating out, choose restaurants that employ an actual chef. These places are more likely to serve dishes using fresh, whole ingredients, rather than pre-packed items. For absolute certainty that there is no meat glue in a meal, cook at home in which all ingredients are familiar and known.
One of the other major effects of eating this manufactured pink slime is an increase in the permeability of the GI tract leading to what is called leaking gut. Leaking gut is when microscopic pores in the GI tract develop and allow for bacteria and bacterial toxins to “leak” into the bloodstream. This can not only cause damage to the liver but if these harmful bacteria get into circulation, they can cause system-wide damage.
While it is easy to just trust food regulators and what is found in the grocery store, it should be known that a lot of what we call “food” today, isn’t actually food. It is vital to do research and to learn what is actually good for your body while discovering those things that may be detrimental. Unfortunately, this pink slime just can’t be cooked out.
Therefore, avoid fast food and eating out. Learn how to cook with whole foods and experiment with new flavors. Your health, as well as your families, may just depend on it.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using this product.
The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of Peter Osborne, unless otherwise noted. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author, who retains copyright as marked. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Peter Osborne and his community. Peter Osborne encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.
2 Responses
Can elastin and collagen in meat , fish e.c.t can contend gluten ?
thankful word is being spread…………..much appreciation