You’ve been a victim of fraud! Food fraud.

Fraud is everywhere these days - even in our food. 

Food fraud is a growing epidemic and cheap imitation ingredients are sneaking into our favorite food items. According to Dr. Mark Stoeckle, senior research associate at the Rockefeller University, it’s hard for consumers to really know what’s inside. High cost ingredients are especially susceptible to fraud, and are often replaced with less expensive imposters. Here are the top offenders on the food fraud list:

* Olive oil, even extra virgin, can be easily cut with hazelnut oil - which could pose a threat to anyone with nut allergies.

* Milk can contain added sugar, salt and skim powder, none of which is listed on the label. 

* Tea bags are sometimes supplemented with lawn grass.

* Expensive white tuna can be easily switched for cheaper escolar.

* Your favorite fruit juices are usually mostly apple, regardless of what the label says.

* Honey is often diluted with sugar syrup, corn and high fructose corn syrup.

Your best protection against food fraud is to buy whole products whenever possible. While you may not be able to milk your own cow, press your own olive oil or harvest real honey from your hive, some foods are relatively easy to make yourself. Buy a whole lemon instead of lemon juice and loose tea instead of bags.