Homemade Granola: Get the Gut Benefits & Avoid the Risks!

Rachel Crowder Nutrition - Why my homemade granola had to go into the bin!

Hey there, healthy foodies! We all love the convenience and taste of homemade granola. It's a perfect way to start your day with a gut-friendly mix of fibre, nuts, and seeds. But before you whip up a batch, let's address a potential pitfall – food poisoning.

Last night I was suffering from a very noisy gut and digestive system. It was very strange because I don't suffer from digestive issues or food sensitives. It wasn't painful but it was interrupting my enjoyment of watching the newest episodes of Bridgerton!

This morning I discovered the culprit - mold on my homemade granola! I made my homemade granola last week with lovely goji berries and lots of my favourite nuts and seeds but I made it in a hurry. I was in a rush because I was busy between client sessions. I didn't let my granola cool properly before putting it into my storage container. 

I had included flaxseeds in my granola and they are actually susceptible to mold! If flaxseed is exposed to moisture or contaminants, it will likely start to mold. This can be very dangerous. So if you notice fuzzy white or green splotches on your flaxseed, like I did this morning, throw the whole thing out right away. Hence my granola in a bag in the bin now! I was lucky that I only had a noisy gut last night, my gut health and microbiome were strong enough to fight off the mold I probably ingested yesterday morning and hence the strange noises! 

Delicious homemade granola with blueberries

Can Homemade Granola Cause Food Poisoning?

Yes, unfortunately, homemade granola can harbor bacteria that can cause food poisoning if not stored properly. The culprit is often Salmonella, a type of bacteria that thrives in warm and moist environments. This is especially a concern with:

• Nuts and Seeds:  They can harbor Salmonella naturally even before they reach your kitchen.

• Honey: While delicious, raw honey can contain small amounts of bacteria.

Don't ditch the granola just yet! Homemade granola is a great gut friendly breakfast! Learn how to get the gut benefits and avoid the risks!

Here are some tips for safe storage and enjoyment:

1. Toasting is Key: The high heat of baking during granola preparation helps kill off any unwanted bacteria. Make sure your granola reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) throughout.

• Honey Alternatives: Consider using maple syrup or brown rice syrup instead of raw honey. These options are less likely to harbor bacteria.

• Storage is Crucial: Once your granola is cool, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.

• Mind the Moisture: Moisture is the enemy! Keep your granola container tightly sealed to prevent moisture build-up, which can encourage bacterial growth.

• Freshness Matters:  Enjoy your homemade granola within 2-3 weeks to maintain optimal freshness and quality.

Now, let's talk about those gut-friendly powerhouses – Flaxseeds!

Flaxseeds are a fantastic source of fibre and omega-3 fatty acids – both beneficial for gut health. However, they contain a type of oil that can become rancid if not stored properly. Here's how to keep your flaxseeds fresh:

• Whole or Ground? Whole flaxseeds have a longer shelf life. If you prefer ground flaxseed, grind them in small batches right before consumption to maximise freshness.

• Fridge or Freezer? Store both whole and ground flaxseeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, transfer them to the freezer.

By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy the benefits of homemade granola and flaxseeds without any safety concerns.

Ready improve your gut health naturally and to explore gut-friendly recipes and personalised meal plans? Let's chat! Book a free 30 minute consultation today!