“You’re pre-diabetic.”

Those were the words my doctor said during a routine checkup shortly after I turned 50 — and they stopped me cold.

My weight had crept up to the edge of obesity. My blood pressure and cholesterol were too high. And suddenly I realized something I hadn’t fully admitted to myself before: the path I was on wasn’t where I wanted to end up.

Like a lot of people, I thought I was eating normally. I avoided obvious junk food and tried to pay attention to nutrition labels. But like most busy adults, I also relied heavily on prepared foods from the grocery store — foods I assumed weren’t that bad for me.

That appointment forced me to ask a question I had never really asked before:

What exactly was I eating every day?

The deeper I looked, the more surprising the answer became.That discovery didn’t just change the way I eat — it eventually led me to start a food company called rootberry.

The problem with ultraprocessed food

The more I learned, the more I realized how much of the modern food environment revolves around what researchers call ultraprocessed foods (UPFs).

They’re designed for efficiency and consistency, not health and wellbeing. And they’re everywhere.

A growing body of research is now linking diets high in ultra-processed foods with higher rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other chronic health conditions.

For me, this wasn’t an academic discussion. I had just been told my own health was heading in the wrong direction.

So I decided to make some changes.

Rediscovering real food

Instead of chasing the latest diet trend, I started focusing on something much simpler: real food made from real ingredients.

Foods that people around the world have been cooking and enjoying for centuries.

And something interesting happened.Not only did I begin to feel better physically — I discovered something else: how much great food I was missing.

Inspired by global culinary traditions

A pot of curried lentils simmering with garlic, ginger, onions and spices fills a kitchen with a rich, comforting aroma. Gojuchang-glazed sweet potatoes caramelizing in the oven. Fluffy quinoa and brown rice steaming on the stovetop. These aren’t “health foods” —  they are deeply satisfying foods that also happen to be incredibly healthful.

But there is still a challenge. Cooking meals like this regularly takes time, and busy schedules often push us back toward convenient but highly processed foods.

That tension — wanting real, wholesome, delicious food but needing convenience — eventually led to rootberry.

All rootberry's foods focus on ingredients naturally rich in fiber, plant protein and essential nutrients that support sustained energy and fullness. Our frozen meals draw inspiration from global flavors that are built around highly nutritional ingredients.

Our goal is to make those foods easy to enjoy in everyday life.

Why non-GMO and non-UPF food matters

For decades, convenience food has often meant highly processed food.

But that doesn’t have to be the future.

To build the food system we want, we need transparency and trust.

The evaluation processes for Non-GMO Project and Non-UPF Verified identified and categorized factors most people don’t have time to think about. Verification cuts through the confusion by simply decoding complicated labels to make better choices easier.

That’s what I needed (and still need) today.

It’s all connected

At rootberry, we believe everyone’s health journey is unique. Food is at the center of wellness and if it doesn’t taste good, nothing else matters.

We can love food that loves us back.

And that’s the idea behind rootberry.

This guest post was provided by Marc Connor, founder of rootberry, a St. Louis–based food company creating nutritionally balanced frozen meals and refrigerated energy bites designed to deliver protein, fiber and sustained energy while prioritizing non-GMO ingredients, minimal processing and little to no added sugar. Follow rootberry on social media and find products in a store near you.

Hadimani spices: Preserving the taste of tradition

In Byadgi, a small town in Karnataka, India, spices aren't just ingredients — they're traditions passed down through generations. This is where the Hadimani family's story begins.

For over 40 years, the Hadimanis have been running their spice and retail business directly from Byadgi, supported by three long-standing retail shops and a trusted wholesale network. Now, through From Byadgi, the Hadimanis bring that same quality and authenticity — along with their Non-GMO Project Verified commitment — to American kitchens.

The connections between the Hadimanis and Byadgi's chili heritage run deep, rooted in a history stretching back over 500 years. When Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama arrived in India in 1498, he brought with him chilies from the Zambezi coast near Mozambique. These chilies transformed Indian cuisine forever, and Byadgi became one of the epicenters of a culinary revolution. What began with bird's eye chilies evolved into the legendary Byadgi variety that is well known today — a chili so prized that it holds Geographical Indication (GI) certification recognizing its unique deep red color, mild heat and distinctive sweet pepper notes.

Growing up in this region, the Hadimanis witnessed firsthand the care and tradition that goes into every harvest. The family has built trust with local communities over four decades, becoming the spice retailer that the local community turns to, generation after generation. They've seen how the unique terroir of Byadgi creates spices with exceptional aroma and color intensity that cannot be replicated elsewhere. From Byadgi products embody this intimate knowledge of quality.

The company's mission is simple: to champion India's rich chili legacy by sharing the vibrant essence of Byadgi chilies with the world. They strive to deliver the finest, freshest chili powders that inspire creativity in every kitchen and celebrate the authentic warmth of Indian spice culture. But here's what makes their brand different: the Hadimani family believes that knowing where your food comes from matters deeply. It's a value they have lived with for generations.

In an industry where spices often pass through multiple middlemen, losing their origin story along the way, the Hadimanis have built an entire company on the principle of traceability. Every jar of From Byadgi spice can be traced back to its source in Karnataka. With end-to-end control, from manufacturing to delivery, they ensure that every spice reaches you pure, fresh and full of authentic flavor. This isn't just good business — it's the same responsibility that has guided the Hadimanis for over 40 years serving families in Byadgi.

Their commitment to non-GMO ingredient sourcing goes hand-in-hand with their commitment to authenticity. When you choose spices that are truly single-origin and Non-GMO Project Verified, you're not just getting better flavor — you're supporting agricultural practices that have sustained communities for centuries without relying on genetic modification. The traditional cultivation methods used in Byadgi have produced exceptional spices for over 500 years, since Vasco da Gama first introduced chilies to the region. Why change what works?

Today, this matters more than ever as consumers increasingly seek transparency in their food. Mass-produced alternatives often contain fillers, artificial colors or questionable additives. The Hadimani family takes a different approach: no fillers, no additives, no shortcuts. They use only the highest-grade spices to preserve their products' natural taste, vibrant color and lasting freshness. Just pure, honest spice that carries intention, heritage and bold flavor.

Quality assurance is paramount to From Byadgi. Every single product — from their flagship Byadgi Chili Powder to Ground Coriander, Turmeric Seasoning and Black Peppercorns — undergoes rigorous third-party lab testing to ensure purity, quality and food safety. This independent verification, combined with Non-GMO Project certification, gives From Byadgi's devotees complete confidence that they're cooking with ingredients they can trust. Each product carries a meaningful story that reflects the enduring bond Indian families share with their local spice sellers.

The process of hand-selecting and sorting each batch ensures that every spice meets the brand's exacting standards. In Byadgi, spices are carefully picked at peak ripeness, then processed to preserve the natural oils and flavor compounds that make them special. From Byadgi crafts ultra-premium spices that capture the richest flavor, aroma and taste, delivering consistent quality in every pack. This attention to detail is what creates the vibrant aroma, deep color and unforgettable taste that discerning cooks rely on.

From Byadgi was founded on the belief that American cooks deserve access to the same quality used in India's best kitchens — the kind of spices that the Hadimanis have provided to families in Byadgi for over 40 years. From Byadgi offers a trusted alternative to the generic, inconsistent products that have flooded the spice market, emerging as the global ambassador of India's chili heritage, uniting spice lovers everywhere through authenticity, quality and care.

Choosing Non-GMO Project Verified spices is about more than just avoiding GMOs — it's about supporting a food system that values transparency, quality and tradition. It's about knowing that the turmeric in your golden milk or the chili powder in your curry comes from a place with a real story, handled by a family who has built trust over generations. It's like bringing home spices from your mother's most trusted retailer — pure, familiar and full of love, with trust built over time.

From Byadgi is proud to be part of the Non-GMO Project community and grateful for the opportunity to share the Hadimani family's story. Every time someone chooses From Byadgi, they're not just choosing authentic flavor — they're choosing to support agricultural traditions that have sustained communities for over 500 years. They're voting with their dollars for a food system that prioritizes transparency, third-party verification and quality over shortcuts and fillers.

As the company continues to grow, their commitment remains unchanged: real color, real flavor, real story. From Byadgi aims to make every meal a moment of flavor, balance and delight, inviting you to experience the difference that single-origin, third-party tested Non-GMO Project Verified spices can make in your kitchen. Whether you're cooking traditional Indian recipes or experimenting with new flavors, From Byadgi brings the authentic taste of Karnataka — and the Hadimani family's four decades of expertise — to your table.

Ready to taste the difference? Explore the full collection online and follow them on Instagram for recipes, cooking tips and stories from the source. 

Together, we can create a more transparent, flavorful, and sustainable food system — one spice at a time.

This guest post was provided by the Hadimani Family and From Byadgi.

Every January, more and more people take the "Veganuary" challenge, diving into a month of plant-based eating, discovering new flavors, and making food choices that nourish both body and planet. But if you’ve tried to go plant-based before, you’ve probably noticed something: not all vegan proteins are created equal.

Many “plant-based” products on shelves today are highly processed, with long ingredient lists and additives that leave you feeling full for an hour — then tired, hungry or bloated later.

That’s where Noble Bean Tempeh comes in. As a minimally processed, whole food made in Montreal from Canadian-grown, non-GMO soybeans, Noble Bean Tempeh is proof that simple ingredients can do extraordinary things.

The whole food difference

Unlike some modern meat substitutes or protein powders, tempeh is made from whole soybeans, not isolates or concentrates, providing you with the full benefit of the bean: protein, fiber and nutrients your body knows how to use.

Each serving of delivers:

• Over 20 grams of complete plant protein
• 8 grams of dietary fiber to keep you satisfied longer
• Iron, calcium and B vitamins that are naturally present in soybeans

That’s balanced nutrition your body recognizes — without the additives, gums or fillers.

Why protein + fiber is the ultimate combo

Protein builds. Fiber balances. Together, they help regulate energy, stabilize digestion and support overall wellness — especially when you’re transitioning to more plant-based meals.

Many people underestimate how filling tempeh can be. Because it’s made from whole soybeans, it digests slowly and keeps you energized without the mid-afternoon crash or  endless snacking. Tempeh makes the perfect base for Veganuary recipes — from warm stir-fries and power bowls to wraps, sandwiches and curries.

Sustainable and proudly Non-GMO Project Verified

Noble Bean has been crafting tempeh in Montréal for over 40 years using organic, non-GMO soybeans grown by Canadian farmers. Their approach is simple: stay close to the source. Real ingredients, locally made, supporting both Canadian agriculture and planet-friendly food systems.

“Our mission is simple: to make the world better, one meal at a time.
It may sound ambitious, but it comes naturally when you love what you do.”
Mike & Liam Makhan, Owners of Noble Bean

Choosing whole-food proteins like tempeh isn’t just good for you. It’s good for everyone.

Kickstart your Veganuary

This Veganuary, make your meals work harder for you.

Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a long-time vegan, tempeh is an easy, satisfying way to get the protein and fiber your body craves in meals that feel good and taste even better.

Get started with simple, delicious recipes featuring Noble Bean Tempeh. Visit the Noble Bean recipe page for meal ideas, preparation tips and Veganuary inspiration.

This guest post was submitted by Noble Bean.

Bakery quality

When asked what makes something "bakery quality," Alexa shared it is all about flavor. “At the end of the day, cookies need to taste great!” she smiled.

For her, taste and quality go beyond flavor. They reflect decades of experience and deep family roots in baking. “I’ve loved baking and dessert for as long as I can remember."

“My Grandma was teaching me how to make pastries, and my Great Aunt Jo inspired my love of frozen desserts.” At 92, Great Aunt Jo still sells her homemade frozen fruit pies and strudels from her Michigan farm — a tradition spanning more than 60 years.

“That’s where my passion for 'fresh' came from,” Alexa says. “The groundwork for Bakr runs through my family story. It took shape long before my company was even an idea.”

While refrigerated, ready-to-bake products historically rely on preservatives and ultra-processed ingredients, Alexa believes the frozen aisle represents the future. “People are realizing that the freshest food is in the freezer aisle."

With frozen products, Bakr is able to do things differently — without preservatives, GMOs or harsh processing, and freezing products within minutes of being made ensures the freshest possible taste.

After years of perfecting her core recipes (with the help of an extra freezer that sits in her living room), Alexa continues testing and refining flavors, including their newest Mini Birthday Cake Cookie, launched exclusively at Target. “I couldn’t even come close to guessing how many cookies I’ve made in my lifetime. I’m always tinkering with new flavors and ingredients.”

She’s just as intentional about good value as she is about flavor. “Bakery quality doesn’t mean much if the product isn’t affordable." Alexa uses her 10 years of expertise leading consumer packaged goods (CPG) supply chain to optimize logistics and deliver value to the customer.

“Typically, you can walk into a popular bakery and expect to pay six or seven dollars for one cookie. That’s a lot — especially considering you also may be paying for ingredients that wouldn’t meet my standards. You're looking at a hefty markup compared with what you can get with Bakr."

Alexa is a self-taught home baker using real ingredients. Her family and friends always gushed, and then gobbled, her baking, but the Bakr brand quickly gained attention in the food world. “In our first couple months in business, we were contacted by Alinea, a Chicago restaurant with 3 Michelin Stars, for our cookie dough. That partnership was a huge testament to the quality and care we put into our products.”

Catching the eye of the food industry's most notable names is no small feat, but Bakr's momentum was undeniable. Requests for dough flooded in from top restaurants and bakeries to grocery stores, and industry awards soon followed.

Simple ingredients

In a crowded store full of options, new brands have to earn trust fast. Authenticity is key. “Lots of brands claim they’re 'clean label,'” Alexa notes, “but without a clear intention for how you bring that vision to life, customers will see through it.”

That’s why every Bakr product is Non-GMO Project Verified. The Butterfly mark is a visible, trusted symbol of the brand’s commitment to transparency.

When Alexa began developing her recipes, she had trouble sourcing “clean” versions of key ingredients. So she made them herself. From partnering with leading natural suppliers to developing a fully custom chocolate chunk and graham crackers, every component of Bakr’s dough starts with their commitment to simple ingredients.

“I’ve even gone so far as to ask suppliers about their ethical and sustainability standards,” she says. “Bakr has high standards for our business, I want to be sure I am partnering with suppliers who care just as much. It’s just the right thing to do.”

That sense of responsibility — to people, the environment, and the food system — drives every decision. Whether it’s paying living wages to farmers who grow Bakr’s cocoa, cane sugar and flour, or ensuring the livestock that supply dairy and eggs are treated fairly and ensuring that no genetically modified ingredients are used in her products, Alexa believes in her commitment to do better across the board. “The Butterfly logo isn’t just a seal. It’s a symbol that we’re doing what’s right for the environment, the animals, and our customers.”

What’s next for Bakr

When it came time to grow responsibly, Non-GMO Project verification was an important step.

“There are few ways to truly validate that a brand cares about ingredients,” Alexa explains. “The Non-GMO Project seal tells our customers they can trust what’s inside.”

The certification process was thorough and rewarding for the first-time business owner. “Non-GMO Project certification is incredibly detailed. Whether it’s feedstock or raw ingredients, there’s no ‘good enough’ — it’s either verified or it isn’t. It was so important to me to gain the certification.” A true testament to the hard work that goes into the verification, Bakr is one of the only Non-GMO Project Verified ready-to-bake brands in the market today.

And the Butterfly is just the beginning.

“Non-GMO Project verification is just the start for Bakr. When you start inspecting ingredients and the current state of our food system, you uncover things that need to change.”

With Bakr, Alexa has shown that she's the right person for the job.

“My goal with Bakr is to create the future of baking at home. I have a responsibility to do it right!”

You can follow Bakr’s mission and Alexa’s journey on Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn.

As of October, Bakr’s three flavors are available nationwide at Target, or you can find a store near you on their website.

This guest post was submitted by Bakr Cookies.

When you open a bottle of African Dream Foods hot sauce or twist one of their grinders, you’re getting more than flavor — you’re tasting a purpose-driven story from the heart of Africa.

Founded by a group of wildlife enthusiasts, hot sauce lovers and entrepreneurs, African Dream Foods was born from a shared dream: to bring the bold, authentic tastes of Africa to tables around the world while protecting the continent’s incredible wildlife. Every bottle sold supports wildlife conservation organizations doing real work on the ground.

From Africa, with integrity

The journey starts with ingredients grown under the African sun — vibrant chilies, fragrant herbs and pure sea salts sourced from trusted farms and local producers who share the founders' values. From the beginning, African Dream Foods made a clear choice to make products that are Non-GMO Project Verified, Halal-certified, and preservative-free.

Non-GMO isn’t a trend — it’s a promise. It reflects the belief that the best flavors come from nature, not from manipulation in a lab. African Dream Foods works closely with South African producers who cultivate traditional, open-pollinated varieties of chilies, such as the fiery Bird’s Eye and the complex African Ghost Pepper, preserving biodiversity and respecting the ecosystems that sustain them.

Flavor for the brave

African cuisine celebrates boldness — in taste, color, and character — and African Dream Foods sauces and seasonings are crafted to honor that spirit. From the smoky depth of Safari Smoke Seasoning to the intense heat of African Ghost Pepper Sauce, every product tells a story of regional spice traditions brought to life through modern, mindful production.

The company's non-GMO commitment ensures that each jar and bottle is as pure as it is powerful. They never cut corners on quality or sourcing — because they know their customers care about what’s in their food and where it comes from.

Doing good, one bottle at a time

Beyond taste, African Dream Foods was built to make a difference. Every sale contributes directly to wildlife conservation initiatives like Wild Shots Outreach, supporting photography education and programs that empower local youth to connect with and protect their natural environment.

In a world where consumers increasingly want their purchases to matter, African Dream Foods is proud to offer products that not only taste incredible but also give back — to the land, the farmers and the wildlife that make their story possible.

Join the movement

More than a hot sauce company, this is a movement connecting flavor, sustainability and compassion. When you choose African Dream Foods, you’re helping preserve Africa’s wild beauty while enjoying the bold flavors it inspires.

Explore the full range of Non-GMO Project Verified sauces, salts and seasonings at africandreamfoods.com, and taste the difference that comes from bold flavor and a big heart.

This guest post was provided by African Dream Foods.

At Shah Trading Company, we believe that food is more than just sustenance — it is a way to bring people together, preserve traditions and inspire healthier lifestyles. For over five decades, Shah Trading has been a trusted name in Canada’s food industry, specializing in the import, packaging and distribution of premium-quality ethnic and natural food products. Since 1974, they have stayed true to their promise of “bringing you the foods of the world," with a simple yet powerful mission: to make wholesome, authentic foods accessible to every household.

One of Shah Trading's proudest achievements is Dunya Harvest, a brand that reflects their dedication to quality, transparency and wellness. “Dunya” means “world,” and represents an ongoing commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients globally and delivering them to Canadian kitchens.

“For us, food is about trust. With Dunya Harvest, we make sure every product that reaches your kitchen is not only delicious but also responsibly sourced and Non-GMO Project Verified.” — Sanjeev Shah, VP, Shah Trading Company

From lentils and beans to rice and gluten-free flours, Dunya Harvest inspires wholesome, delicious meals your family will love. Today’s consumers want more than just good taste — they want to know where their food comes from, how it is grown, and whether it meets the highest standards of quality and safety. That’s why Dunya Harvest products proudly carry the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. This trusted third-party certification ensures that our products meet rigorous standards for GMO avoidance, giving shoppers confidence that they are making the best possible choice for their families.

We’re excited to share the Dunya Harvest product line with you! Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a festive family dinner, Dunya Harvest helps you make food that’s delicious, nourishing and made with care. Together, let’s celebrate food that’s good for you, good for the planet and good for generations to come.

But the work goes beyond what is on the store shelf. The team at Shah Trading is deeply committed to building strong supplier relationships, maintaining full traceability and supporting sustainable practices that protect the environment for future generations. They work closely with farmers, processors and partners around the world to ensure that every product is grown, handled and packaged with care, remaining focused on innovation and community. Whether it’s developing new product lines that fit modern dietary needs, improving supply chains to reduce their environmental footprint, or partnering with local food initiatives, Shah Trading is constantly looking for ways to create a positive impact.

This guest post was submitted by Priyanka Jadav, a graphic designer at Shah Trading Company. Priyanka helps to bring the Dunya Harvest brand to life through creative storytelling and visual design, creating content that connects people with wholesome products.

Ever feel like your cereal is gaslighting your gut?

You know the kind labeled as “natural” or “healthy” but packed with processed starches, mystery ingredients and sugars hiding under seven different names. You finish your bowl and wonder why you’re still hungry, bloated, or crashing an hour later.

At Choputa, we believe your breakfast shouldn't confuse your body. It should be understood. That’s why we created the first cereal made with fonio, a 5,000-year-old West African grain your body has always known how to process.

Let’s talk about why fonio makes sense biologically, nutritionally and deliciously and how it became the star of the first cereal your body truly understands.

Your body wasn't built to digest ultra-processed ingredients

The human body is a temple, not a test subject.

Yet most cereals on grocery shelves today are filled with highly refined sugars, synthetic additives and engineered ingredients designed more for shelf-stability than nourishment. Even many “healthy” cereals are ultra-processed, leaving your body overworked and undernourished.

It’s no wonder more people are experiencing bloating, fatigue and blood sugar crashes after breakfast. We’ve strayed from the food our bodies were designed to recognize.

The solution? A return to real, whole ingredients that the body can naturally process and thrive on.

Meet fonio: The 5,000-year-old supergrain that just makes sense

Fonio is one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world — and one of the least known in the US.

Grown in West Africa for more than 5,000 years, fonio is a tiny, gluten-free grain that’s naturally packed with:

• Complete amino acids (including methionine and cysteine, which are rare in other grains)
• Prebiotic-resistant starch to support gut health and steady energy
• Easy digestibility, even for sensitive stomachs

It’s nature’s version of a high-performance fuel. No need to fortify or fabricate it’s already got the goods. And because fonio is drought-resistant and fast-growing, it’s also a climate-smart crop with a small environmental footprint.

People used to say fonio was “fit for kings.” We’d argue it’s fit for mornings, too.

Real ingredients. Real cereal. Real understanding.

At Choputa, we didn’t just want to make another breakfast cereal. We wanted to reimagine what breakfast could be.

That meant stripping things back to the essentials:

• No fillers
• No additives
• No artificial sweeteners or synthetic fibers

Just fonio and a few other real, whole food ingredients, chosen with care. The result is a warm, energizing breakfast that feels indulgent but leaves you feeling light, grounded and ready to move.

Oh, and yes, we’re proudly Non-GMO Project Verified, Whole Grain Certified, vegan and gluten-free. But we don’t stop at checkboxes. We’re here to start a movement. One where your food works with your body, not against it.

More than a cereal: A grain with a global mission

Fonio isn’t just good for you. It’s good for the planet and the people growing it.

Our fonio is responsibly sourced from smallholder farmers in West Africa who have passed this grain down through generations. By bringing fonio to the US, we’re creating global wellness together building bridges between cultures, economies, and ecosystems.

Every cup of Choputa supports sustainable farming, food security and a healthier breakfast culture. That’s a big mission for a little grain, but fonio has always punched above its size.

So, why does your body understand it?

Because fonio is the kind of food that evolved with your body, not one that was engineered to be tolerated.

Your body doesn’t need a degree in biochemistry to break it down. It just knows. When you eat something that’s natural, clean and complete, your body gets the message loud and clear: “I know what this is. Let’s go.”

That’s the power of the first cereal your body understands. That’s Choputa.

We’re launching the #WTFonio campaign to spark curiosity, share knowledge and invite the world to rediscover what breakfast was always meant to be: real, nourishing, and unforgettable.

Here’s how you can be part of it:

• 🥣 Take the Fonio Breakfast Challenge: Swap your morning bowl for Choputa and share your experience using #WTFonio
• 📸 Post your first spoonful and tag @choputa with #WTFonio
• 🛒 Tell us where you shop: Nominate your favorite local store to carry Choputa
• 🎥 Watch and share a mini farmer story from West Africa coming to our IG this fall
•  💌 Sign up for Fonio Month updates at choputa.com and get first dibs on giveaways and exclusive content

Ready to eat like your body knows best? Try Choputa, the first fonio cereal available online (www.choputaeats.com and Amazon) and at select retail stores in Chicago.

Follow @choputa and tag us with your #WTFonio moments!

This guest post was submitted by Choputa.

In today’s world, there are numerous types of supplements and varieties to choose from. Most customers will read the health claims on the front of the label as well as the medicinal ingredients, but do you ever wonder what the non-medicinal and other ingredients are? 

Let’s break down some of the common fillers and artificial ingredients that are put in some

supplements, so you can make educated choices on what you want and don’t want to include in your daily routine.

Common fillers and artificial ingredients

It is required by law for supplement companies to disclose all ingredient quantities in the supplement facts panel. However, this is missing in the non-medicinal and other ingredients section. Other ingredients are often called ‘fillers’ or ‘excipients,’ meaning they are inactive substances.

Common fillers found on the market include magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide and microcrystalline cellulose. We read these words all the time, but what do they do, and are they necessary?

• Magnesium stearate is the magnesium salt of stearic acid found in animal and vegetable fats. It is commonly used in supplements and medications to lubricate machinery used for encapsulation and to prevent ingredients from sticking together. It is meant to aid consistent dosage while preventing clumping within the supplement capsule and powder. However, there has been a rise in concern regarding the safety of taking magnesium stearate in large quantities over extended periods of time, as it may compromise the absorption of medicinal ingredients. The water-repelling effect that magnesium stearate creates around active ingredients may affect the body’s ability to absorb its nutrients. It may also contribute to the build-up of biofilm in the body and may be one of the many causes of brain fog or even IBS with diarrhea.

In theory, small amounts of magnesium stearate shouldn’t have any adverse health reactions. However, it is essential to consider all the supplements and medications that contain this filler. If we ingest magnesium stearate daily from a variety of sources, are we reaping the full benefits of the ingredients, or are we hindering our health in the long run?

• Silicon dioxide, also known as silica, is a naturally occurring compound made of silicon and oxygen. It is commonly used as an anti-caking agent and stabilizer in many packaged foods (e.g., cereals, crackers, spices), as well as in supplements and medications. Silicon dioxide helps absorb excess moisture in supplements, ensuring the ingredients do not become lumpy. It is also frequently used to improve the shelf life and stability of a supplement by preventing active ingredients from reacting with each other.

Some have debated the health concerns of consuming silicon dioxide in large quantities, as there are potential risks to the lungs if fine silica dust is inhaled. A study examining the effects of silicon dioxide exposure found that mice exhibited higher levels of inflammation and damage to their gut lining after prolonged exposure to the compound. Additionally, a separate study found that mice experienced an increase in immunoreactivity to food sensitivities, specifically ovalbumin (the protein found in egg whites). Again, we must consider the long-term health effects of taking silicon dioxide on a daily basis. Are we truly consuming low dosages if this filler is found in so many packaged foods, supplements and medications that we take daily?

• Microcrystalline cellulose is a refined wood pulp or plant fiber used in supplements as a binder to help hold ingredients together, a diluent to distribute ingredients evenly, and a disintegrant to aid in tablet breakdown and dissolution in the digestive tract. Side effects of this ingredient may include its potential laxative effect, a feeling of low energy and headaches. Environmental issues and the quality of pulp or plant fibers are the main concerns with this ingredient — is it organic and chemical-free? Is it derived from genetically modified (GMO) corn or cotton crops?

Microcrystalline cellulose is produced using hydrochloric acid through a process known as acid hydrolysis. Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive to the human body in large amounts and is commonly used for the production of fertilizers, dyes, textiles and rubber. The proximity of hydrochloric acid to ingredients like microcrystallines brings up the question of whether they are safe to consume and whether they have any long-term health effects with daily consumption.

What does consuming artificial ingredients long-term mean for you?

The most important message is that the long-term health effects of consuming these common fillers and excipients daily are unknown. If you take supplements to achieve optimal health, then these non-medicinal ingredients are as important as the medicinal ingredients. When shopping, it is essential to read the ‘other ingredients’ lists — as consumers, we can hold manufacturers responsible for creating supplements that are true health aids.

At Living Alchemy, our supplements are 100% natural. We do not use artificial ingredients or fillers, such as magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide or microcrystalline cellulose, in any of our products. Instead, Living Alchemy only uses the finest, 100% whole food, Non-GMO Project Verified and USDA certified organic ingredients wherever feasible. Our process utilizes an automatic encapsulation method to avoid adding any fillers or artificial ingredients.

The result is a supplement that provides the best health benefits through clean nutrition and whole food ingredients — because the body recognizes food, not synthetics.

This guest post was written by Living Alchemy’s Director of Education, Irene Pauline Humpelstetter, Certified Nutritional Practitioner and Chartered Herbalist.

Born out of a deep love for heritage and clean ingredients, TUYYO instant Agua Fresca drink mixes are a modern reimagining of a beloved cultural classic. Inspired by the fresh fruit drinks made by abuelas in Latin households and the nostalgic powdered mixes many of us grew up with, TUYYO blends tradition with innovation. Founder Stefanie Garcia Turner, a first-generation Mexican American, created the brand to bridge the gap between wellness-focused food trends and authentic Latin flavors. TUYYO — "Tu y Yo," meaning "you and me" — is about more than a beverage; it's about connection, culture, and community.

One of the core values behind TUYYO is a commitment to transparency and clean ingredients, especially when it comes to avoiding GMOs. Each mix is Non-GMO Project Verified, reflecting a belief that families deserve non-GMO options that support their health. In a food landscape filled with overly processed, artificial-laden products, especially in Hispanic grocery aisles, TUYYO stands apart by prioritizing real ingredients like organic agave and real fruit powders. The Non-GMO Project label isn’t just a badge, it’s a promise to provide customers with a product they can trust. This is especially important in communities disproportionately affected by health concerns like diabetes and obesity.

Convenience also plays a big role in TUYYO’s success. With a growing need for quick, easy and healthy beverage options, TUYYO makes it simple to enjoy delicious Agua Fresca in under a minute with the refreshing flavor of the authentic beverage. Just add water and stir — no chopping fruit or long prep times required. It’s the perfect solution for busy families, working professionals and anyone who wants a flavorful, hydrating drink without the hassle or guilt.

In addition to crafting delicious, better-for-you beverages, TUYYO is committed to giving back. The company donates a portion of its profits each year to Latino-led nonprofits that are driving positive change in their communities. Organizations such as Latino Outdoors, the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center in San Antonio, and the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization in Chicago are just a few examples of groups TUYYO supports. These partnerships are a reflection of the brand’s mission to uplift Latinx communities through food, culture, and advocacy — because change starts at the local level, and every sip can be a step toward something greater.

With refreshing flavors like Mango, Pineapple, Strawberry, and Horchata, TUYYO is a flavorful revolution in powdered drinks. It's not just a product, it’s a movement rooted in cultural pride, clean eating (and drinking!), and bringing people together, one glass at a time.

To learn more about TUYYO’s mission and products, visit the website https://tuyyofoods.com.

This guest post was written by Stefanie Garcia Turner, founder & CEO of TUYYO Foods