Nutrition and food safety: Insights on grains, legumes, and mold risks

Various reports provide nutritional guidance and food safety advice. Regarding food safety, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that visible mold on soft, water-rich foods may indicate deeper contamination by mycotoxins, which can be harmful to health. In such cases, simply cutting off the moldy part may not be sufficient.

Nutritional highlights include the benefits of pumpkin seeds, which are noted for being high in magnesium, zinc, and iron, and serving as a superior protein source compared to almonds or chia seeds. Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans are also recommended as versatile, affordable, and nutritious staples for seasonal transitions.

Additionally, traditional grains like buckwheat, millet, and barley are seeing a resurgence due to their high nutrient density and lower environmental impact compared to rice. Rice production is noted for its high water consumption and significant CO2 footprint, whereas these alternatives offer better climate and water balances. Finally, a kitchen lifehack regarding the rapid de-coring of bell peppers was tested and found to be less effective than expected, as the stem is difficult to pull out cleanly.