Originally published October 13 2005
Popular misconceptions spark Canada's potato facts campaign
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
McCain Foods has recently undertaken a consumer education program called "Potato Facts," aimed at promoting the nutritional benefits of potatoes and oven-baked fries.
"Potatoes are packed with nutrients," says nutrition expert Nancy Schwartz, Ph.D., "A small, skin-on potato, roughly the size of a computer mouse, contains only 130 calories and is an excellent source of both potassium and vitamin C, as well as a source of fibre and iron.
Potassium is clearly a nutrient Canadians should be trying to get more of in their diets.
Health Canada recognizes the importance of potassium by allowing some potassium-rich, low-sodium foods to carry the following diet-related health claim, "a healthy diet containing foods high in potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure, a risk factor for stroke and heart disease.
Many believe that when a potato is processed into an oven-baked French fry, the nutrients are lost forever however the facts indicate otherwise.
Almost three-quarters of Canadians polled don't know oven-baked French fries contain vitamin C and nearly half of Canadians don't know oven-baked French fries contain fibre.
Furthermore, one-third of respondents had misperceptions about the saturated and trans fat content of oven-baked French fries.
"It's important for Canadians to learn the facts about oven-baked French fries because they are a favourite food of many Canadians," said Nancy Schwartz.
It is also trans fat and cholesterol free and low in saturated fat."
The survey results also showed that two-thirds of Canadians thought that a serving of oven-baked French fries contains more than 5 grams of fat when, in fact, it only contains 4 grams of fat.
"The key to achieving a healthy diet is eating sensible portions of the foods you enjoy in moderation, and balancing your food choices over a day or two."
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