Heat And Kraut: What’s The Story?

02 Nov Heat And Kraut: What’s The Story?

Did you know that probiotic bacteria are microbes that are good for you? Probiotics contribute to a healthy gut flora, boost immunity and are known to aid in digestion. This is one of the reasons why Be Nourished has come to be: because we want to get the healthy stuff in you!

One of the questions we’re often asked is about heating or cooking with kraut, and we have to say while we do it sometimes- who doesn’t like their cheese toast topped with some Helena Bay? –  it won’t give you all the benefits that you would get from eating raw unpasteurised kraut with live probiotics. While it may taste good, if your kraut is hot or has been heated up, just know that you are not getting the full benefit of this superfood.

On the plus side, in Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon*, she tells us that the “lactic-acid-producing bacteria in the fermented vegetable are the perfect antidote to carcinogens which may have formed in meat if it has been barbequed.” Unsure what she means? Stock up on sauerkraut for your summer BBQs to make sure you balance that barbequed steak you’re eating. Afterall, it’s all about balance, right?

So, to heat or not to heat… this is the question but our answer is quite simple: Do what you want, we do! Somedays you may want to have your kraut straight out of the jar, talk about getting full benefits from a snack! Other days, you may need a Reuben sandwich and don’t give a care about benefits. It’s about personal preference, too.

How do you like your kraut? Feel free to hop on our FB page to tell us your thoughts, we’d love to hear them.