Unidentified Food Object (UFO) Sightings
The average Sprouts store carries more than 20,000 items. And yet, despite the abundance of products and ease of store navigation, most of us tend to go down the same aisles and buy the same few items every time. That's why we decided it was time to go in search of some UFOs – Unidentified Food Objects – and make a list of some of the most interesting and unusual products you've probably never heard of.
Perusing the shelves at Sprouts can yield a few surprises. You'll see juices made from exotic fruits, powders with strange names that can help boost your energy, and a few special diet items that might make you do a double-take. But you might be interested to learn that many of these seemingly "freaky foods" are not only beneficial – some taste good, too.
Fruit Pearls
You'll find these gems in the frozen section. Think Dippin' Dots with a healthy twist. This innovative, all-natural snack made with frozen yogurt and real fruit is full of vitamin C and fiber. Fruit Pearls come in individual serving cups so they're perfect for a quick, portioned dessert or snack on the go. Available in several fruit flavors.
Chia Seeds
No, we're not talking sprouting terracotta critters. Chia seeds were a staple in the diet of the ancient Mayans and Aztecs, and for good reason! Chia seeds are loaded with good stuff: antioxidants, fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals and Omega-3s. Add a couple of tablespoons to your soup or even your muffin, cookie and pancake recipes for approximately 7 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein and 205 mg of Omega-3s! You can find chia seeds in the Bulk section or pre-packaged in the grocery aisles.
Royal Maca/Maca Root
A dietary supplement relatively new to the natural food scene, maca has been used for thousands of years by Native Peruvians as a medicinal food that promotes vitality and hormonal balance and increases energy and stamina. Maca is rich in selenium, calcium, magnesium and iron. Sprouts carries many brands available in capsules for an easy dose, as well as powder to mix with beverages or sprinkle on hot cereal, toast, yogurt or fruit.
Flax Hull Lignans
A lignan is a group of chemical compounds found in plants. Flax hull lignans are natural immunity boosters with anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Mixed into a smoothie or sprinkled over your morning oatmeal, these will arm your defenses against cold, flu and other maladies.
Hemp Milk
In addition to its, um, more ethereal qualities, the hemp plant is used to make everything from rope to cosmetics to – yes, milk. Hemp milk is made from hemp seeds, which are naturally rich in Omega-3s and Omega-6s, amino acids, vitamins A, D, E and B12, riboflavin and calcium! A single serving delivers 4 grams of protein and 50 percent of the daily value of calcium. Plus it's dairy-, casein-, gluten- and whey-free. Use it in place of milk for a wallop of delicious nutrition. Hemp milk is a little thicker than regular milk; it has a rich, smooth finish and a slightly earthy taste.
Goji Berries
Goji berries have received much attention for being the latest superfruit. But what makes these Himalayan berries so super? For starters, they are loaded with antioxidants that can help slow the aging process and may help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and other illnesses. Mix a handful of these dried berries with your favorite raw, unsalted nuts for a healthy trail mix. Goji berries are reminiscent of raisins in texture, but are not quite as sweet, and boast a tangy zip.
Avocado Oil
Holy guacamole! Avocados and avocado oil are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and oleic acid, a monosaturated fat that can help lower cholesterol, and are also a great source of potassium, the mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. The oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal to cook with. It's odorless and has a neutral flavor. So, splash some on your next salad, use it when sautéeing your favorite veggies...you can even fry potato chips in it.
Grand Cru Raclette
This cheese is so unique, it's available only as a limited edition. Grand Cru Raclette is a fine, rustic and hearty cheese with Swiss inspirations. Raclette, meaning to ""scrape,"" is traditionally served heated until melted and then scraped onto boiled potatoes and served with pickled vegetables. Raclette also pairs well with sausage, tart apples, grapes and Riesling.
Mangosteen Juice
A Mangosteen is a superfruit, known in Asia as the ""Queen of Fruits"" due to its nutritional value. It's naturally rich in antioxidants and has a high concentration of xanthones, which are said to be beneficial in the aid of allergies, various infections, as well as maintaining good cholesterol levels and gastrointestinal disorders. So, the next time you're feeling a little taxed, try grabbing a can of this wonder drink, available in several brands and fruit flavors.
Biotta Juices - Sauerkraut, Beet, Potato and Celery
Yes, we said sauerkraut juice! Organic,no less – because if you are going to down some kraut, you want to make sure it is really pure.
Biotta juices are made from naturally grown fruits and vegetables, and in addition to their exotic flavors that will score you points among the folks at the gym, they also offer some health benefits.
Sauerkraut juice is rich in lactic acid and is good for digestion. The lactic acid can help inhibit the growth of bad intestinal bacteria and keep the digestive process working smoothly. It's also high in vitamin C. Beet juice is an excellent source of folic acid, which can aid in a healthy pregnancy and help with many other conditions, such as heart disease and anemia. Studies have shown drinking two cups of beet juice a day may help reduce blood pressure (WebMD, Feb. 8, 2008). Potato juice can help with an upset tummy. Potatoes contain 15 different minerals and amino acids, and the high quantity of starch works with the minerals to help neutralize stomach acid, helping to provide relief from acid indigestion and heartburn. Not to be outdone, celery juice acts as a diuretic, stimulating the kidneys and helping to rid the body of toxins. It can also help neutralize pH balance.
So go ahead and indulge: these beneficial beverages may sound a bit odd, but you may find their nutritional value to be priceless!
