Re: Online Petition to Keep Raw Almonds Raw!

Okay, here is my reply -- just now e-mailed:


"I appreciate your reply, but I still do not totally agree.

Yes, the minerals in almonds will remain intact, because 152 degrees of heat or chemical pastuerization will not effect minerals.

However, the molecular structure of the polyunsaturated and mono-unsaturated fatty acids is changed by heat from a flexible, bent shape that is easy for the body to utilize into a straightened form. This form is similar to the shape of the less-reactive saturated fatty acid and cannot be efficiently processed biologically because it is more stable and less chemically active, thereby clogging the metabolic pathways.

The fatty acids found in naturally occurring unrefined oils in nuts and seeds are more readily digestible and more beneficial to the body than those that have been heated to the point where their shape is dramatically changed.

And Last but not least, Heating also destroys the beneficial enzymes that are naturally found in the nuts and seeds . These enzymes, such as lipase, are needed to digest the fat. When nuts and seeds are roasted or the friction during grinding creates excess heat, the natural enzymes found in the nuts and seeds are destroyed, which forces the body to produce the necessary digestive enzymes and diverts energy away from producing enzymes that aid in rejuvenation of the body. Oil extracted from the seeds or nuts, even if cold pressed, has had many nutrients and enzymes removed or destroyed that would otherwise aid in digestion. With low-temp ground nut and seed butters, almost all of the nutrients, the fatty acids and the enzymes needed to digest them are kept intact while their delicious taste is enhanced.


So I still stick with my former opinion that you should set aside certain lots of organic or non-roasted almonds for NON pastuerization for the health conscious consumer and state so on the packaging so the consumer is "warned" that they are not pastuerized. Pastuerize all the rest , and you will keep ALL consumers happy. Then I will and many others will buy these almonds while everyone else will happily purchase the pastuerized version.


Thank you for taking the time to respond to my comments

Sincerely,
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