When I think of sushi, I think it should be a healthier option. Wouldn’t you? Sadly, that is not always the case. This whole thing was sparked by a photo a reader sent me of her vegetarian sushi she bought at her local Sprouts. This is what was in it.
The ginger contains Aspartame, which is an artificial sweetener that should be avoided. Aspartame has been known to cause harmful side effects that include: headaches, dizziness, seizures, vertigo and heart palpitations. The wasabi is even worse as it contains artificial dyes, FD&C, Yellow 5 and Blue 1. Artificial dyes should also be avoided and Yellow 5 in particular, is a known carcinogen.
So I went to the store to do my own investigation. The sushi I found at my local Sprouts had no ingredient list what so ever. So I tried another local grocery chain here. This is the sushi I found at my local Tom Thumb. I had to take several photos since the label was wrapped around the box.
So here is the first part of the label. As you can see, the Yellow 5 and Blue 1 were also used in this wasabi.
In addition to the artificial dyes, I see sugar listed 3 times. As sugar, fructose and there is sugar in the vinegar. Sugar in sushi? Let’s look at the final photo.
I see even more sugar in the form of brown sugar! Another surprising ingredient in the wasabi is corn flour. Really? Is that necessary? This is just another example of why every label needs to be read. If you are craving sushi, try to get it at a restaurant that you can trust. Or you can try making it yourself.
19 thoughts to “Watch Your Labels with Sushi”