1. Dried fruits
Dried fruits have preservatives such as sulfur dioxide, which is being used to prolong their shelf life. In 2012, a Hong Kong consumer council discovered at least one type of preservative after they had tested 50 samples from the market.
"Despite its low toxicity, sulfur dioxide can cause allergic reactions like asthmatic attacks, headaches or nausea in some people sensitive to the chemicals," said Professor Ron Hui Shu-yuen, vice-chairman of the council’s community relations committee.
2. Granola
Granola has been categorized as one of the healthy breakfast options, wherein it contains fiber, protein, iron, and more. However, granola should be consumed with some caution since it also has large quantities of sugar and hydrogenated oils. When buying your granola, make sure to choose the brand that has minimal added sugar and make sure to avoid overeating.
3. Banana chips
One serving of banana chips could probably have up to 10 grams of saturated fat. To avoid this, try limiting your consumption, or bake your banana slices in an oven at a low temperature. Through this, you will be able to avoid harmful manufactured ingredients, as well as added sugar.
4. Sports drinks
A study has found that there is no difference in electrolyte measures when comparing marathon runners who consume sports drinks to those who drink water.
"If you feel [sports drinks] make a difference for you, go for it," said Dr. Troy Madsen, an emergency room physician from the University of Utah Hospital. "Don't feel like you have to spend a lot of money on a lot of things. Water's fine. Just stay hydrated while you're exercising."
5. Microwave popcorn
Air-popped popcorns are healthy snacks, but microwavable popcorns which come in a brown bag are not actually healthy. The smell being emitted from a freshly popped bag can be harmful when inhaled regularly. According to Prevention, there are also some manufacturers that add up to a half gram of trans fat per serving without disclosing it in the nutrition facts label.