06 December 2005

And while we're on the subject of animal fats...

The Guardian seeks to put its readers off mince pies for life:
"Suet is hardened fat found in the abdomen of sheep and cattle, particularly around the loins and kidneys. It is commonly used in cooking, as a bird food and for making candles. It is a key ingredient in mincemeat, which traditionally contained real meat but now tends to be made from raisins, spices, citrus peel, sugar, grated apple, alcohol and suet. Vegetarian suet, made from palm oil and rice flour, is increasingly used and should be indicated on the label. However, labelling laws prevent the mince pie being described as "traditional" if it is used. The Jam and Similar Products Regulations 2003 suggest (it isn't law) that manufacturers make mincemeat containing no less that 2.5% suet by weight. Suet is a saturated fat, which has been linked to increased incidence of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis (thickening/ hardening of arteries). The Food Standards Agency says that vegetarian suet is just as high in saturated fat as animal suet."

And a happy christmas to you too.

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