Nutritionists often tout the wonders of beans, lentils and nuts. These nutrient-dense foods are all called edible seeds. Edible seeds include all legumes, grains and nuts. These food items are the seed portion of a plant and are one of six edible parts in a plant. Edible seeds grow on vines, bushes or trees.
Edible seeds are a basic part of many popular dishes around the globe. You can find edible seeds in soups, dried snacks and deserts. Edible seeds are available year round, and the dried versions store well without refrigeration. The enormous variety of edible seeds creates interesting options for consumers.
Edible seeds provide a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Due to their protein content, legumes can be a healthy substitute for meat, while nuts provide a rich source omega fatty acids.
What to Look for
For the freshest quality edible seeds, make sure that the seeds are packaged in airtight containers. When edible seed are stored in bulk containers, check to see that lids fit tightly to keep out contaminants. Look over the seeds to make sure they look like they are the correct color, have no moisture and are free of insect or pest droppings.
Purchase edible seeds from stores where the stock turns over rapidly. Rancid seed sometimes sit on store shelves unnoticed for long periods of time. If you cook dishes with rancid seeds, they can affect the flavor of your dishes and introduce unhealthy contaminants in your food.
Look for dried or raw edible seeds rather than those found in prepared snack mixes. Snack mixes are often filled with preservatives and sodium. They may also include extra oils, which increase the amount of fat in your diet.
Common Pitfalls
People with food allergies will need to look carefully over their shopping list and avoid buying certain edible seeds. Celiac-disease sufferers should avoid most grains, while people with nut allergies may need to avoid all or some nuts. Instead, allergy sufferers can chose another type of edible seed.
Beans and lentils are often found canned in sauces and soups. Although they do not generally lose their nutritional value in this form, it is better to avoid edible seeds sold in sauces or soups, as they are often high in oils, fats and preservatives.
Member Comments