Children love Nutella, but would parents give it to them if they knew the health and environmental consequences of the ingredients?
Palm Oil production is a leading cause of deforestation, particularly in tropical regions creating loss of biodiversity and land grabbing, where indigenous communities and small farmers are forcibly removed from their land without fair compensation.
Skimmed Milk Powder is processed by removing most of the fat from milk before it is dehydrated, causing the loss of good fats and fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D.
White Refined Sugar has over 100 negative metabolic consequences including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, premature ageing and several important short-term effects including:
⇒ Suppression of the immune system impairing defences against infectious diseases.
⇒ Deficiencies in chromium and copper.
⇒ Malabsorption of calcium and magnesium which affects sleep and stress levels.
⇒ Rapid rises in adrenaline causing hyperactivity, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and crankiness with drowsiness and decreased activity during the comedown.
⇒ Acidic saliva causing tooth decay, and periodontal disease.
⇒ Lower vitamin E levels which are essential for protecting the brain from toxins.
⇒ Reduced learning capacity; poor results and learning disorders.
⇒ Hormonal imbalances such as increased oestrogen in men (man boobs and infertility), exacerbating PMS in women, and decreasing growth hormone in children.
⇒ Worsening the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
⇒ Compromising adrenal gland function creating problems with stress management and adrenal fatigue.
You can read more about the negative health effects of white refined sugar here: https://www.roseautumn.com/2023/11/the-health-risks-of-white-refined-sugar/
Buy healthier versions or make your own using this recipe. Making your own chocolate spread at home is a fun and rewarding process, and you can control the ingredients to make it healthier or cater to dietary needs.
Roast the Hazelnuts:
Blend the Hazelnuts:
Add Cocoa Powder and Sugar:
Adjust Consistency:
Taste and Adjust:
Transfer it to a jar with a lid. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Note that if stored in the fridge, it may harden slightly and you may need to let it come to room temperature before spreading.
Enjoy your spread on toast, in desserts, or with ice cream.