Yam and Kelp Noodles – Are They Really Raw and Healthy?
Yam, Kelp, Miracle Noodles
Kelp noodles have been labeled “raw” which makes them popular with the raw food crowd. However, are they really “raw?” We will discuss these noodles in more detail below.
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How do we feel about Yam and Kelp Noodles?
Even though these noodles are not truly raw in the classical sense, we believe they can be valuable as a diet food. They are satisfying and filling and add texture to vegetable and salad dishes. These noodles are a wonderful substitute for those folks who love pasta but are looking for a lower calorie alternative.
Of course, we highly recommend eating mostly fresh organic raw fruits, vegetables, raw sprouted seeds, nuts and grains above all else if at all possible. But these inventive and creative noodle products can be part of a delicious diet.
So… ARE These Noodles Really Raw and Healthy?
They are not really a completely raw food with enzymes and raw factors intact. However, they can be considered healthy in the sense that they do no harm and are valuable as a diet food. They can greatly contribute to a weight loss dietary program as they are so low in calories. They can be very tasty and help satisfy those “pasta” urges and cravings.
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More Details About Yam and Kelp Noodles
Yam Noodles and Kelp noodles are made from the extracted starch and components of yams, other vegetables, or in the case of kelp noodles, a bleached form of sodium alginate which is a dry, isolated, processed powder commonly used as a thickener for food, clothing dyes, paints.
Thus, all of these noodles are highly processed, having little if any actual nutritional value, but are considered convenient as a “filler” food. When properly prepared, these noodles are almost flavorless and therefore work well with sauces and seasonings.
There are some Yam noodles that have “zero calories” which makes them a popular food for dieters.
None of these noodles are actually “raw.” Legally, there are no standards for labeling processed foods, “raw.” Therefore, manufacturers can claim the term even though their product is highly processed and/or exposed to higher temperatures.
In the manufacturing of these extractives and powders, the base ingredients have been subjected to high heat.
Some have claimed that small amount of agar agar in some of the noodles can be considered a bit of an absorbent of heavy metals, but laboratory tests have not confirmed this.
All kelp, yam and other “starch” based noodles are a great “treat” food. They can be quite filling. One of our favorite ways of serving would be with a raw organic soy, ginger, garlic, honey sauce, or, a fresh tomato sauce.
Yam and Kelp Noodle Recipes. (Opens new tab or window)
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Here is a
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