Are all almonds the same?
Did you know most of the almonds grown in America are pasteurized? They can be either steam pasteurized, boiled, roasted, or treated with propylene oxide. The problem with pasteurization is that it kills most of the enzymes and vitamins in almonds making them difficult to digest.
Also, the problem with propylene oxide (PPO) is that it is a carcinogenic chemical according to the EPA. The use of this chemical has been banned in the EU, Canada, and Mexico because it has been linked to liver disease and other immune system dysfunctions.
how do you know which almonds to buy?
Purchasing raw organic almonds or almonds directly from a farmer is one way to avoid pasteurization. Another way is to purchase almonds grown outside of the United States. Read the packaging when you purchase almonds. You can also find raw almonds online. One brand I like is Food to Live Almonds which come from Italy.
Furthermore, when purchasing almond butter, the same rules apply. Be careful to read the label for additives and for raw organic almonds. The simplest and most delicious solution is to make it yourself.
You will need a food processor or blender. It takes a good 10 minutes so be patient!
Ingredients
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- Simply process raw almonds in your food processor or blender.
- After about 3 minutes it will start to look crumbly.
- It becomes creamy almond butter between 9 and 11 minutes.
- You can add salt, honey, cocoa, or any other additions, or just leave it plain.
This recipe works for any other nuts like walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, etc.
