Guar gum and xanthan gum are often used in ice lollies and ice cream.

What is Xanthan Gum?

February 7, 2024 smitsa 1

Xanthan gum sounds like a planet straight out of science fiction but it is one of the most useful and surprisingly common materials to be […]

No Picture

Tween 80

July 24, 2023 smitsa 0

Tween 80, also known as polysorbate 80, is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier commonly used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care […]

No Picture

The Javanese Long Pepper

May 19, 2023 smitsa 0

The Javanese Long pepper, my dear curious minds, is a fascinating botanical wonder that hails from the enchanting island of Java in Indonesia. Known scientifically […]

No Picture

The Benefits of Coix Seed

May 12, 2023 smitsa 0

Coix seed, (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf.) also known as Job’s tears or Chinese pearl barley, is a nutritious grain that has been valued for its […]

Healthy Organic Roasted Marcona Almonds with Salt

What are Marcona Almonds?

May 4, 2023 smitsa 0

Marcona almonds are a type of almond that is highly prized for its unique taste, texture, and nutritional profile. They are known for their large […]

bread contains gluten if wheat is used,

What is Gluten?

April 27, 2023 smitsa 0

Gluten is a protein composite that is found in certain grains, including wheat, barley, and rye. It is formed when two proteins, gliadin and glutenin, […]

Cashew nuts in bowl on wooden table

Cashew Anyone?

April 20, 2023 smitsa 1

Cashew nuts though are famed for their slightly sweet, distinctive taste and I remember having a pot of these nuts roasted and thought they had […]