Last Updated on April 5, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A Facebook post says that baby carrots do not have any nutrition and are harmful for your kidneys. We fact checked and found this claim to be FALSE.
The Claim
A Facebook post by the name Carolyn Bailey, talks about baby carrots:-
“There is no such thing as baby carrots. These are processed carrots, soaked in YOU KNOW WHAT !TO keep them vibrant in color. They also strip the skin off of them so now you have no nutritional value in these. Carrots should only be eaten if they have ripples and skin on them. There’s no such thing as a smooth carrot. These process, baby carrots will rip your kidneys apart. It’s probably best that you grow your own carrots”
Fact Check
What are baby carrots?
Baby carrots, commonly found in grocery stores, are small, peeled, and pre-cut carrots. These carrots are typically harvested early in their growth stage, then processed into bite-sized pieces, making them convenient for snacking and cooking. Despite their name, they are not actually immature carrots but rather are often cut from larger carrots. Their compact size and ready-to-eat form make them popular for quick and easy consumption, whether enjoyed raw as a snack or incorporated into various dishes during cooking.
Are there any nutritional components present in baby carrots?
Yes, baby carrots have several nutrition components. They are a good source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. They also provide fibre, vitamins C and K, and minerals like potassium, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Here is the table of nutritional component available in 100 grams baby carrots:
| Name | Amount | Unit |
| Water | 90.4 | g |
| Energy | 35 | kcal |
| Protein | 0.64 | g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.13 | g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 8.24 | g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 2.9 | g |
| Total Sugars | 4.76 | g |
| Calcium, Ca | 32 | mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.89 | mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 10 | mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 28 | mg |
| Potassium, K | 237 | mg |
| Sodium, Na | 78 | mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.151 | mg |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 2.6 | mg |
| Folate, total | 27 | µg |
| Choline, total | 7.5 | mg |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 690 | µg |
| Carotene, beta | 6390 | µg |
| Carotene, alpha | 3770 | µg |
| Vitamin A, IU | 13800 | IU |
| Lutein + zeaxanthin | 358 | µg |
| Vitamin K (phylloquinone) | 9.4 | µg |
When we asked Dr Swati Dave, dietician, regarding the claim, she explained, “Baby carrots provide the same vital nutrients as mature carrots. They are creamy, sweet, and bland enough not to irritate the gut.”
Are baby carrots bleached and processed?
Yes, according to FSSAI all the fruits and vegetables are bleached, but the bleach would likely degrade rapidly in the presence of light and when mixed with water. Additionally, most people wash their vegetables before consuming them at home, further reducing the risk of any potential harm. However, it’s important to note that proper washing and handling of vegetables is compulsory to ensure food safety.
Are baby carrots not good for your kidneys?
There’s no evidence indicating that processed baby carrots are specifically harmful to the kidneys. But just like every food has side effects excessive consumption can lead to Carotenemia that causes yellowing of your palms and fingers. Carrots are also problematic for individuals unable to convert it to vitamin A, such as those with hypothyroidism.
THIP Media Take: If you’re concerned about the presence of bleach or other chemicals in your carrots, we recommend washing them thoroughly after purchase.
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