I just reread the label of my favorite mac-n-cheese alternative, the Country Cheddar Bowl by Amy's Kitchen, and happened to catch something on the list of ingredients that I didn't recognize — nigari. In parentheses it says "magnesium chloride, a natural firming agent," but that use of the word "natural" didn't make me feel any better.
I trust food from Amy's Kitchen because it's made with such wholesome ingredients, so nigari can't be bad for me, right? I decided to do a little research. To find out what I discovered, read more.
Magnesium chloride is a salt that's highly soluble in water. In Japan, it's known as nigari, derived from the Japanese word for "bitter." It's a white powder made from seawater after the sodium chloride has been removed and the water evaporated. It's an important coagulant used when making tofu or soy milk and is also found in baby formula. Well, that's a relief. I knew Amy wouldn't steer me wrong.
Schuh
Robe Di Firenze
Forte Forte
thanks for investigating this! I love Amy's products but it is nice to always be critical and re-read things
1I eat Amy's all the time bc of their Gluten Free choices - I have Celiac & Crohn's Disease and it's hard to find tasty ready made items. Her products are lovely.
2I'm beginning to pay more attention to labels, etc., having been lax about it. This info is great.
3haha, you made me kind of nervous.
4I think these label-able articles are great, but I still wouldn't call white pasta with cheese "wholesome".
5great job fitsugar! I really need to start reading labels closer!
6Um... haven't you ever taken an introductory chemistry course? I find it hard to believe somebody would get freaked out over this.
7I don't get it; it SAYS that it's magnesium chloride right on the label, so what's the big worry about? Magnesium chloride is just an different kind of salt that has no sodium in it. Potassium chloride is also used in things that are "low sodium" to mimic saltiness.
8Love the meals Amy's Kitchen makes/sells. I read the label(s) anyway however it is nice to find a brand that stays true to their word. I have yet to find any issues with Amy's items.
9OMG this looks amazing!!!
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