Here's Why You Shouldn't Buy Pre-Cut Broccoli

Do you enjoy eating broccoli? That might depend on whether you're a child or an adult. It's common knowledge that most kids don't like broccoli, and ABC Science reports that the answer might be due to "the aromas released by enzymes in the mouth." Apparently, a study found that if your children are among those who produce more gas in their saliva, it's likely they won't like the aromas and flavors of vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. 

Things are a bit different in adulthood, and most of us acquire different tastes over the years. Statista reports that in 2021, the average American ate 5.2 pounds of broccoli, which is a pretty good amount. In fact, broccoli is so popular in the U.S. that a Green Giant brand survey "found broccoli remains America's favorite vegetable for 2022." It seems like a whopping 29 states voted for broccoli as their favorite vegetable, while runners-up include corn and carrots (via PR Newswire). 

Who'd have thought broccoli is so beloved? But hey, The Huffington Post reports that it's the favorite food of former President Barack Obama, and actress Kristen Bell is getting people to eat broccoli on social media, so it seems like broccoli already has a pretty good fanbase (via People). 

With this in mind, the next time you're in the supermarket, strolling down the aisles, you might reach for pre-cut broccoli. But maybe you should think twice.

Of course, broccoli is good in all of its forms — fresh, frozen, whole, and pre-cut. In fact, it's so good that it's often at the top spot of the healthiest vegetables due to its impressive nutritional benefits (per Vegan.io). According to the Times Of India, this green veggie reduces cholesterol, inflammation, and allergic reactions. It also prevents cancer, contains tons of antioxidants, keeps our bones healthy, makes our skin glow, and helps in the process of detoxification. Wow, that makes us want to head out and buy some broccoli immediately! 

But if you're out there shopping and buying pre-cut veggies, we get it. People are often in a hurry, and buying pre-cut veggies saves time. However, Lauren Harris-Pincus, the author of "The Everything Easy Pre-Diabetes Cookbook" says that you should never buy pre-cut broccoli. The reason is simple — you're wasting money. Pre-cut and pre-packaged broccoli is usually bought for double or even triple the price of uncut broccoli. On top of that, broccoli is easy to work with — there's nothing to peel, and all it needs is a rinse in cold water.  If you do want to buy pre-cut foods, Harris-Pincus recommends coconut, pineapple, pomegranate seeds, and butternut squash, so choose wisely (per AllRecipes). 

After all of that, when you have broccoli in your kitchen, make sure to make the most of it and check out some broccoli recipes the whole family will eat up.