Various instant products have been tried by many. When there is no time or opportunity to cook a full meal, instant mashed potatoes are very helpful, but how natural is this product?
Manufacturing technology
By examining the composition on the packaging of instant mashed potatoes, you can find out that the glass or bag contains potato flakes, salt, milk powder, seasonings, flavors and preservatives. At first glance, it seems unrealistic to turn potatoes into powder or flakes, which are enough to cover with hot water to get real mashed potatoes. However, raw potatoes contain 75% water, which can be disposed of while retaining the rest of the composition. In finished mashed potatoes, the liquid content can generally go up to 77%.
The principle of making instant mashed potatoes is based precisely on the idea of liquid evaporation. In production, raw potatoes are washed, peeled, boiled and mashed. Then it is dried by special machines and crushed to obtain one form or another: granules, powder or flakes. For example, for the production of flakes, mashed potatoes are rolled into thin sheets, and then cut.
It is better not to brew mashed potatoes directly in plastic cups, but pour it into a glass or metal container: when heated, the package can release harmful substances.
Features of the composition
In addition, at the stage of preparation, the product is enriched with mineral and flavoring additives, and preservatives and oxidants are added to the composition to increase the shelf life. Many people are frightened off by the resulting chemical set, but do not forget that everything in the world consists of various chemical elements, including natural vegetables and fruits. The only difference is whether the chemical compounds are obtained naturally or through chemical synthesis.
The content of a flavor enhancer, most often monosodium glutamate, in instant products has also aroused a lot of criticism. There are a myriad of myths associated with this supplement. At the same time, not everyone knows that monosodium glutamate is naturally found in many fresh vegetables, but it decomposes rather quickly during storage. Artificially synthesized monosodium glutamate is widely used in Asian cuisine, as it stimulates a specific area of the taste buds, enriching the taste of the dish.
The lethal dose of monosodium glutamate is seven times that of table salt.
There is a lot of debate about the usefulness of instant mashed potatoes, but even dietitians conclude that while homemade mashed potatoes are much healthier, instant foods do not cause harm if you use them carefully.
