5 Foods I’m Not Buying in 2025

As I continue to focus on living a healthier lifestyle, I’ve become aware of the impact that certain foods and ingredients have on my body and the environment. From pesticide-ridden produce to highly processed snacks, there are countless hidden dangers in what we eat every single day. In this blog, I’ll share some of the key foods I plan to avoid in 2025, why I steer clear of them already, and what healthier alternatives I have and will adopt.

the dirty dozen
I tend to steer clear of the top three contenders: strawberries, spinach, and kale. My goal is to minimize pesticide exposure wherever possible, so I choose organic options or find alternatives when these make it to my plate. Pesticides aren’t just harmful to the environment—they can wreak havoc on our bodies too. From short-term issues like irritation and nausea to long-term risks such as hormone disruption and chronic diseases, their impact on our health is serious. You can dive deeper into the details here.

canola oil
Did you know canola oil was originally used as a machine lubricant? That’s right—back in the 1940s and 50s, it could be found in mechanics’ shops before becoming a staple in kitchens worldwide. Today, it’s a highly refined product, often bleached and deodorized, with most of it being exported globally from Canada. Its production involves high heat and chemical processing, which strips away nutrients and can create harmful trans fats. Research suggests it can increase inflammation in the body, negatively affect memory, and potentially harm heart health. Better alternatives include extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, organic cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, and grapeseed oil—natural options that retain their nutrients and provide health benefits without the risks. Here are two videos on the subject, linked here and here.

ultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods are heavily manipulated, undergoing innumerable processes and possessing a long list of artificial ingredients. The drawbacks of these foods are pretty obvious, yet I’m always surprised when I see mothers shopping for their families with carts full of these fake foods, packed with artificial colours and flavours. I’ve never bought baby or toddler snacks for my daughter because I can’t find any that are free from sugar or canola oil! As women, consuming too many UPFs can contribute to serious health issues, like cancer and depression, while also damaging our long-term well-being. This doesn’t mean we have to avoid processed foods entirely, but it’s about the quantity we consume. An occasional treat is fine, but daily indulgence is not.

processed/deli meat
A turkey sandwich on sourdough bread hates to see me coming, so this is a hard one. Turkey, along with other deli meats, is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sodium content, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Going forward, I’ll be focusing more on plant-based proteins like tofu, beans, and lentils for a healthier, nutrient-packed alternative insha’Allah!

store-bought juice
Since getting my juicer, I’ve been amazed at how simple it is to make fresh juice at home using all-natural ingredients. It’s been a game changer, helping me avoid empty calories, excessive sugar, and artificial flavours. Eliminating store-bought juices from my diet has been a decision I’ve stuck with for years, and I’ll definitely continue to do so.

As I move into the new year, I’m excited to challenge myself with new projects and continue my journey toward a more natural, sustainable way of living. Insha’Allah, I’m planning to take on some new kitchen challenges in the upcoming year, like making bread, chicken stock cubes, and cereal from scratch—exciting goals I can’t wait to try! I hope this blog was of benefit to you all.