Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Preparing Safe Lunches

While children rely on teachers for daily lessons, making safe lunches falls squarely on caregivers. Unlike cafeteria workers who regularly take food safety training, most parents preparing lunch for their kids at home or taking it to school haven’t received any formal food safety instruction. Nutrition counts, too. The lunch you’re making satisfies the hunger pangs of busy kids and fuels their cognitive abilities. Studies have shown that proper nutrition improves students’ scores, memory capacities, motor skills, social skills, and language skills. Keep them well-fed and safe with the four steps to food safety – Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.



Clean: The best way to prevent many forms of illness, including foodborne illness, is with proper hand washing. Children should always clean their hands before eating, and parents should do so before and during lunch preparation. It’s easy to get preoccupied with busy schedules and rush through the five steps of washing hands; however, handwashing is vital to remove any germs that may be present. Hand washing should always include the following:

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
  2. Rub your hands together with soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
  4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
  5. Dry your hands using a clean towel.

Separate: Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meat and poultry away from ready-to-eat foods. When preparing perishable foods that require cutting (for example, raw bacon and raw chicken you plan to cook for salad), separate these items from fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and other foods to avoid cross-contamination.

  • Cut up and prepare your raw ingredients to avoid cross-contamination when handling your ready-to-eat items for salads or other sides.
  • Different colored cutting boards are a great reminder to prevent cross-contamination (you can use a green cutting board for fresh produce and another color for meat and poultry).

Cook: Have a food thermometer easily accessible to ensure you’re cooking to recommended safe internal temperatures:

  • Cook whole cuts of meat, including beef and pork, to 145 degrees Fahrenheit and allow them to rest for at least 3 minutes before carving.
  • Cook ground meats, like burgers and sausages, to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Cook all chicken and turkey to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chill: When preparing lunch ahead of time, remember that perishable foods should not be placed in the Danger Zone—temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit—where bacteria multiply quickly and can make food unsafe.

  • Ensure all perishable items are refrigerated within two hours of coming out of the oven or refrigerator.
  • Discard food left out for more than two hours to prevent foodborne illness.
  • If your child needs to carry their lunch, never pack perishable foods in a brown paper bag because they will be unsafe by lunchtime. Use an insulated, soft-sided lunch bag and add a frozen gel pack and a frozen juice box or bottle of water with the lunch.

These four steps – Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill – give parents and caregivers steps they can use to protect their children from food poisoning. Now that we’ve covered all the basics, you’re ready for the big test – hungry students!

August 14, National Creamsicle Day


Creamsicle® is a frozen dessert with vanilla ice cream in the center and a fruit sherbet on the outside. The classic Creamsicle® flavor is orange and vanilla, but today there are numerous flavors to choose from.

The term “Creamsicle” is a registered brand name owned by Unilever.

Creamsicles are available in several varieties, including 100 Calorie Bars, Low Fat Bars and No Sugar Added Bars.










GoodGuide is a business that provides information about the health, environmental and social performance of products and companies. Its mission is to help consumers make purchasing decisions that reflect preferences and values. GoodGuide includes a team of scientific and technology experts working to acquire and compile high-quality data, which then can be organized and transformed into actionable information for consumers.

GoodGuide Ratings (0 to 10, 10 the most favorable).

Creamsicle, No Sugar Added  5.9
Saturated Fat: Low
Cholesterol: Low
Sugars: Low
Sodium: Low

Creamsicle, Low Fat 5.3
Saturated Fat: Low
Cholesterol: Low
Sugars: Medium
Sodium: Low

Creamsicle, 100 Calorie Bar   5.1
Saturated Fat: Low
Cholesterol: Low
Sugars: High
Sodium: Low


Monday, August 12, 2024

Chives: A Culinary and Nutritional Gem

Chives: The Secret Ingredient You Need!

 Chives: A Culinary and Nutritional Gem

Aroma:
Chives have a delicate, onion-like aroma with a hint of garlic. Their mild, fresh, and green scent makes them an ideal addition to various dishes without overwhelming other flavors.

Role in Cooking:
Chives are versatile and add a subtle onion flavor to salads, soups, omelets, and baked potatoes. They're often used as a garnish to add a pop of color and a light, savory taste. Chives are best added at the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavor.

Location of Growing:
Chives thrive in well-drained soil and sunny locations. They are hardy perennials, often found in herb gardens or in pots on windowsills. They can grow in USDA zones 3-9 and are easy to cultivate indoors and outdoors.

Health Benefits:
Chives are not just flavorful; they also pack a nutritional punch. They are rich in vitamins A and C and contain compounds that may help lower blood pressure and support heart health. Their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties also contribute to overall wellness.

Storage:
To keep chives fresh, store them in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag. They can also be chopped and frozen for longer storage without losing too much of their flavor.

Nutrition:
Chives are low in calories, with just about 1 calorie per tablespoon, but they're packed with essential nutrients like vitamins K, A, and C. They also contain small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and folate, contributing to bone health and immune function.

Interesting Facts:

  • Chives are part of the allium family, which includes onions, garlic, and leeks.
  • In medieval times, chives were believed to ward off evil spirits and were hung around the house for protection.
  • The purple flowers of chives are also edible and can be used to add a splash of color to salads.

Incorporating chives into your meals not only enhances flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your dishes. Whether you're growing them in your garden or adding them to your favorite recipes, chives are a wonderful herb to keep on hand!

Sunday, August 11, 2024

International Youth Day

The world’s young people – who make up the largest generation of youth in history – can lead a global drive to break the patterns of the past and set the world on course to a more sustainable future. Young people are directly affected by the tragic contradictions that prevail today: between abject poverty and ostentatious wealth, gnawing hunger and shameful food waste, rich natural resources, and polluting industries. Youth can deliver solutions to these issues, which lie at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.    - Ban Ki-moon




The theme of International Youth Day 2024 is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This theme highlights the key connection between digitalization and accelerating the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the crucial contributions of young people in this transformative process.

Technologies like mobile devices, digital platforms, and emerging innovations like artificial intelligence are crucial in advancing the SDGs. Data generated from every digital interaction is fundamental to digital transformation, enabling evidence-based decision-making. It is estimated that digital technologies and data contribute to at least 70% of the 169 SDG targets, bringing about a profound impact across their economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

While challenges such as the digital divide persist, young people are often considered “digital natives” at the forefront of adopting and innovating with new technologies. They form the largest demographic of users and developers, shaping digital trends globally. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, youth remain an essential demographic group in leveraging the transformative power of technologies to address global challenges.


Message: 

International Youth Day 2024



 


Saturday, August 10, 2024

Affordable Ways to Order Groceries Online

With the growing popularity of online shopping, the convenience of ordering groceries from the comfort of your home has become a reality. Whether you're looking to stock up on essentials or explore new options, here are eight cost-effective methods for ordering groceries online. As you embark on your online grocery journey, staying vigilant against potential scams is important. We'll also provide tips on avoiding common pitfalls and making the most of your online shopping experience.

  1. Boxed - Bulk Shopping Made Easy: Boxed is your go-to destination if you want to purchase bulk products. Enjoy the benefits of free delivery and no membership fees while browsing through a wide range of categories, including snacks, beverages, household essentials, and wellness products. From bestsellers like Glad ForceFlex Plus Drawstring Bags to refreshing Polar 100 percent Natural Seltzer, Boxed offers a diverse selection to fulfill your needs.


  2. Instacart - Your Personal Grocery Shopper: Instacart comes to the rescue for grocery chains that lack their own delivery services. With partnerships across stores like Food Lion, Wegmans, Shop 'n Save, Publix, and The Fresh Market, Instacart serves approximately 85 households in the United States. While not necessarily the cheapest option, Instacart's speedy service ensures your order is in good hands. Personal shoppers act upon receiving your order, even suggesting alternatives if an item is unavailable.


  3. Amazon - The Online Shopping Pioneer: Amazon, the trailblazer of online shopping, extends its reach to non-perishable grocery products. Much like ordering a book or a gadget, you can now have your groceries delivered. Amazon Fresh, available in select cities, offers grocery delivery exclusively to Amazon Prime and Amazon Prime Student members by invitation. Dive into the convenience of online grocery shopping through Amazon's well-established platform.


  4. Walmart - Bulk Savings and Unlimited Delivery: Walmart, a retail giant, provides an array of pantry items via mail order. The Delivery Unlimited membership, priced at $12.95 per month or $98 annually, offers unlimited Walmart Grocery Delivery orders. For an added level of convenience, Walmart's InHome Delivery service allows employees to load groceries directly into your fridge. Experience hassle-free shopping and discover the practices nutritionists swear by while grocery shopping.


  5. Jet - Walmart's Urban Shopping Specialist: Building on its online grocery options, Walmart acquired Jet to enhance urban shopping experiences. Jet's delivery services cover all states and the District of Columbia except Alaska and Hawaii. As part of Walmart's evolution, Jet serves as a bridge between convenience and affordability, catering to diverse geographical locations.


  6. Peapod - East Coast Delivery Expert: Flourishing in East Coast and Midwestern regions, Peapod has established itself as a prominent delivery player. Offering pantry items, produce, and refrigerated goods, Peapod provides reasonable prices. With no membership fee, deliveries cost $6.95 for orders over $100, or you can opt for store pickup at just $2.95. Enjoy the convenience of next-day deliveries in most areas and same-day delivery in select locations.


  7. Traditional Grocery Chains: Shop Online with Familiar Names: Major grocery store chains such as ShopRite, Safeway, Kroger, and Albertsons offer online shopping experiences mirroring their physical stores. You can choose between convenient in-store pickups or delivery options based on your location. While exploring your preferred chain's website, be sure to review any associated fees to make an informed decision.


  8. FreshDirect - Freshness Delivered to Your Doorstep: Operating primarily in the New York City area, FreshDirect has expanded to new markets, including Washington, DC, and Philadelphia. Sourcing fresh food directly from farms, fishermen, and artisans, FreshDirect provides a selection that leans toward the high-end spectrum. While you may find higher-priced options, FreshDirect is excellent for obtaining fresh, quality groceries online.'


Conclusion: Embrace the convenience of online grocery shopping with these affordable and diverse options. By staying vigilant against scams and making informed choices, you can streamline your shopping experience and enjoy the benefits of having groceries delivered right to your doorstep. Explore the various platforms mentioned here and discover the one that best suits your needs and preferences.




Back to School Food Safety

Preparing for the first day of school this weekend? As you’re making your way through those long back to school shopping lists, don’t forget these FoodSafety essentials: 

  • Insulated lunchboxes
  • Gel/ice packs
  • Hand sanitizer/hand wipes 
Tips to Keep Your Kids Healthy




Resources
1. 
Back to School Toolkit to Prevent Foodborne Illness, USDA



August 10, National S'mores Day

A s'more is a traditional nighttime campfire treat popular in the United States and Canada, consisting of a roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of graham cracker. National S'mores Day is celebrated yearly on August 10 in the United States. The first recorded version of the s’more recipe can be found in the publication Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts of 1927.


Ensure accurate nutrient analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 25 years of experience. A valuable service for the Recipe Blogger, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, FAND at recipenews@gmail.com







Friday, August 9, 2024

National Farmers Market Week

We visited a local market in Tamarac, Florida, to celebrate National Farmer's Market Week. The group is known as the Community Farmers Markets of South Florida. 

"As a food photographer, my visual senses came alive; as an explorer of foods, the smells and flavors were enticing; and as a dietitian, my mind raced with the food combinations, satisfying the senses and nutritional needs." Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RD, LN, FAND

Farmer's markets are worldwide and reflect an area's culture and economy. They often feature locally grown produce, meats raised humanely, handmade farmstead cheeses, eggs and poultry from free-range fowl, and heirloom produce.



"Farmers grow the food, talk about how they grew the food, and learn from the shoppers who, in turn, prepare the food for family dinners. The farmers market is where food is both fuel and culture and thus where we grow healthy communities." - Richard McCarthy, founding President of the Farmers Market Coalition and Executive Director.

The Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to strengthening farmer's markets for the benefit of farmers, consumers, and communities. 


Twelve Reasons to Visit a Farmers' Market
 Alice Henneman, RD


Food Safety and the Farmers Market

With the number of farmer's markets increasing throughout the country, food safety inspectors are working harder to ensure consumers get safe products when they shop.

Abbey Harding is a food safety inspector for the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Part of her job is to inspect farmer's markets, like the one in Grand Rapids, to ensure vendors comply with current regulations.


An inspector looks at the labeling. Vendors need to specify where their products are grown. Typically, packaged goods vendors must list weights, ingredients, and whether the product requires refrigeration.

"If it's coming from a licensed source, we'd check with license control," Abbey Harding said. Michigan vendors need to be licensed, and if they process food, they may be subjected to inspection at their facility.


Resources.
Community Farmers Markets of South Florida. Current Farmers Markets are located at the following places:
  • Plantation Farmers Market, a year-round adventure, every Saturday from 8-2, in Volunteer Park on Sunrise Blvd, between NW 188th Ave and Flamingo Road.
  • Tamarac Farmers Marke is also a year-round market, held every Sunday from 9 to 2 on the NW corner of Southgate and University.
  • Boynton Beach Farmers Market, year-round every Saturday from 9-2, on the SE corner of Boynton Beach Blvd and Federal Highway.
  • Margate Farmers Market is a seasonal market open from November to April.

Exercise with Your Child Week


This week encourages parents and guardians to exercise with their children as part of a healthier lifestyle. Exercise enables children to improve their overall well-being, to maintain a healthier weight, and to reduce the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Children need 60 minutes of play with moderate to vigorous activity every day, but it doesn't have to be all at once. 

As a parent, you can help shape your child's attitudes and behaviors toward physical activity. Throughout their lives, encourage young people to be physically active for one hour or more each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. Here are some ways you can do this:

•Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle.

•Make physical activity part of your family's daily routine by taking family walks or participating in active games together.

•Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity.


•Take young people to places where they can be active, such as parks and community centers.


•Be positive about physical activities in which your child participates and encourages them to be interested in new activities.


•Make physical activity fun, such as individual sports, and recreational activities including walking, running, skating, bicycling, swimming, and playground activities (check with your local health department regarding the safety of 
team sports).

•Instead of watching television, encourage your child to find fun activities such as walking, playing chase or riding bikes.


•Be safe! Always provide protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads or knee pads and ensure that activity is age-appropriate.




Sid the Science Kid-Work Your Body
More and more children programs are encouraging
physical activities.


Exercise and the Physically Challenged
Physical activity is important for all children.
Get advice from a 
professional with experience in physical activity and disability. They can tell you more about the amounts and types of physical activity that are appropriate for your child's abilities.


Resources.
Kids Eat Right, Make Fitness Fun for the Whole Family

Thursday, August 8, 2024

The Journey of the Passion Fruit from Farm to Table

The journey of passion fruit from farm to table involves several stages of cultivation, harvesting, processing, and distribution. Here's an overview of the process:

Cultivation and Farming: Passion fruit is typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions with warm climates. It requires well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular rainfall. Farming includes planting seeds or seedlings, supporting structures for vines to climb (such as trellises), and maintaining proper irrigation and nutrition.

Growing passion fruit from seed
 

Plant Care and Maintenance: Farmers need to monitor the health of the passion fruit plants, control pests and diseases, and provide necessary fertilization. Regular pruning helps improve fruit production and quality.

Flowering and Pollination: Passion fruit vines produce intricate and beautiful flowers. Proper pollination is essential for fruit development. In some regions, native pollinators like bees play a crucial role, while manual pollination might be necessary in others.

Fruit Development and Harvesting: As the flowers are pollinated, they develop into green fruits that gradually mature into distinctive purple or yellow passion fruits. The harvest timing depends on factors like fruit color, size, and desired sweetness. Overripe fruits may fall from the vine and become damaged.

The Nutrition of the Passion Fruit



Harvesting: Passion fruits are harvested by hand. Workers carefully pluck ripe fruits from the vines to avoid damaging them. It's important to handle the fruits gently to prevent bruising.

Post-Harvest Handling: After harvesting, the fruits are sorted to remove damaged or unripe ones. They are then washed and sometimes treated with a mild disinfectant. Proper handling and storage help maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of the fruits.

Packaging and Transportation: Passion fruits are packed into crates or boxes, often lined with protective padding to prevent bruising during transit. Temperature control might be necessary to ensure the fruits arrive at their destination in good condition.

Distribution: Passion fruits are transported from the farm to distribution centers or wholesalers. From there, they are distributed to local markets and grocery stores and potentially even exported to other countries.

Retail and Consumption: Passion fruits are available for purchase in grocery stores, farmers' markets, and other retail outlets. Consumers can select ripe fruits based on appearance and aroma. The fruits can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in various culinary applications, adding a tangy and tropical flavor to dishes and beverages.

Culinary Use: Passion fruits can be used in various ways, such as making juices, smoothies, desserts, sauces, and jams. The unique flavor profile of passion fruit adds a delightful and refreshing taste to a wide range of recipes.

Passion Fruit Mousse

The journey of passion fruit from the farm to your table involves the coordinated efforts of farmers, laborers, distributors, and retailers to ensure that the fruit reaches you in its freshest and most flavorful state.

Resources
1. Health Benefits of Passion Fruit. High levels of key vitamins and minerals and is rich in antioxidants.  Medical News.
2. 
Fresh Passion Fruit Recipes, Insanely Good








National CBD Day
What is Jannabis Wellness?


Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, FAND is a Holistic Cannabis Practitioner, Culinary Nutritionist, Cookbook Author, and Speaker.

Prior to her journey as a Holistic Cannabis Practitioner, I followed Janice's work in the field of dietetics and nutrition. She is well known and respected in our profession and her cookbooks and meal planning strategies are very popular. I am a fan of Janice and when she decided to expand her practice to include 
Jannabis Wellness products - it caught my attention.


I read about her father's relief from pain after using medical marijuana, and I knew I wanted to know more. I have a son who is a quadriplegic with Spastic Cerebral Palsy and suffers pain constantly. Could this be an answer?

I read Janice's extensive References and Resources, and an article in the April 2019 Issue of Today’s Dietitian, Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, describes Cannabis Use for Treating Disease. I decided to contact Janice and ordered PCR Hemp Oil Salve to massage my son's hamstrings.


My son was a bit hesitant about trying the salve, even though I told him it would not make him high. He decided to try it. With continued massage, Jake's hamstrings loosened up. It was not permanent but provided temporary relief.



Janice’s mission is to help others suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, autoimmune disorders, IBD/IBS, and other debilitating conditions. She completed training at the Holistic Cannabis Academy and now advises clients on access, proper cannabinoid ratios, dosing, best consumption methods, and cooking with cannabis in her consulting business, Jannabis Wellness.


Jannabis Wellness products are derived from medicinal hemp (legal nationwide according to the 2018 Federal Farm Bill). View list of products.



I found the literature and research compelling, and recommend the following readings:
1. References and Resources, Jannabis Wellness
2. Cannabis Use for Treating Disease, Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, April 2019 Today’s Dietitian






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