Friday, May 26, 2023

Heat Safety Awareness Day


Heat Safety Awareness Day
Resources.
1. National Weather Service
2. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hydrate Right

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Heat-related illnesses may occur when the body’s temperature rises too quickly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration, excessive urination, or sweating.

Heat-related illnesses can range from cramps to heat exhaustion to heatstroke. Heatstroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.


At-Risk

Factors or conditions making some individuals more susceptible to heat-related illnesses include older adults, young children, physically disabled, excessive body weight, fever, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, prescription medication, alcohol use, and sunburn.



Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Our body needs water to keep cool. Persons who are on fluid restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids. Limit caffeinated beverages and do not drink alcoholic beverages. 

Staying hydrated is important, especially when the temperature rises or during increased physical activity. Try these easy ways to increase your fluid intake:

1. Carry a reusable water bottle. Keep it full.
2. Add flavor to your water, such as slices of lemon, lime, cucumber or strawberries. Herbal ice teas can be a great way to increase fluids.
3. Eat fruit or popsicles. You can get fluids from the foods you eat. Watermelon and cantaloupe have high water content. A 100% fruit juice pop provides fluids and is refreshing on a hot day.
4. Plan ahead. If you are going to be outside at a picnic or ball game, make sure to pack plenty of fluids.


Never Leave Children, Disabled Individuals
or Pets in Parked Vehicles

Each year children and pets left in parked cars die from hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is an acute condition occurring when the body absorbs more heat than it can handle. Studies have shown temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, pets and even adults. Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.

 

PBSO demonstrates dangers of heat inside a car




Thursday, May 25, 2023

National Asparagus Month - Selection, Preparation, Recipes


Asparagus is a perennial garden plant belonging to the Lily family. It is harvested in the spring when it is 6 to 8 inches tall. The most common variety of asparagus is green in color. There are two other edible varieties available. White asparagus is grown underground to inhibit its development of chlorophyll content, therefore creating its distinctive white coloring. It is generally found canned, although you may find it fresh in some select markets, and it is generally more expensive than the green variety since its production is more labor-intensive. The other edible variety of asparagus is purple in color. It is smaller than the green or white variety (usually just 2 to 3 inches tall) and features a fruitier flavor. It also provides benefits from phytonutrients called anthocyanins that give it its purple color.

Nutrition Information
Low in calories, only 20 per 3.5 oz. serving
Contains no fat or cholesterol
Very low in sodium
A good source of potassium. (1)
A source of fiber (2 grams per 3.5 serving)
An excellent source of folic acid
A significant source of thiamin and vitamin B6


Selection
Asparagus stalks should be rounded, and neither fat nor twisted. Look for firm, thin stems with deep green or purplish closed tips. The cut ends should not be too woody, although a little woodiness at the base prevents the stalk from drying out. Once trimmed and cooked, asparagus loses about half its total weight. Use asparagus within a day or two after purchasing for the best flavor and texture. Store in the refrigerator with the ends wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Preparation and Cooking
Thin asparagus does not require peeling. Asparagus with thick stems should be peeled because the stems are usually tough and stringy. Remove the tough outer skin of the bottom portion of the stem (not the tips) with a vegetable peeler. Wash asparagus under cold water to remove any sand or soil residues. It is best to cook asparagus whole. If you want to cut asparagus into small pieces, it is best to cut them after they are cooked. Asparagus can be served hot or cold.

Serving Ideas
•  Add cold asparagus to your favorite salad.
•  Toss cooked pasta with asparagus, olive oil, and your favorite pasta spices. 
•  Chopped asparagus make a flavorful and colorful addition to omelets.
•  Sauté asparagus with garlic, mushrooms, and tofu or chicken for a complete meal.

Recipes
Asparagus Recipes & Tips from The Produce Lady


How To Make Perfectly Roasted Asparagus



EatingWell, Asparagus 

Food Network, Asparagus recipes

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Brown Rice, Quinoa, Barley and Oats with Asparagus, Strawberries, Garbanzo Beans

May - Celebrating Asparagus and Strawberry Month


Brown Rice, Quinoa, Barley, Oats, and Garbanzo Beans
with Asparagus and Strawberries 

1 serving 

Ingredients 
1/2c Brown Rice, Quinoa, Barley, and Oats, prepared 
8 Asparagus Spears, steamed
2 Tbsp Garbanzo Beans, canned, drained and strained 

4 Strawberries, diced 


Directions
1. Prepare multi-grains as per manufacturer’s directions.
2. Lay asparagus down on the plate.
3. Combine grains, garbanzo beans, and strawberries; top asparagus.





Nutrition Information

Nutrient Analysis Services
Purchasing nutrient analysis software and learning how to use the program is only useful if you have the knowledge to convert “as purchased” ingredients to the “edible portion.” 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 Nutrient information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, FAND at recipenews@gmail.com



Grilled Yucatan Shrimp

Yucatan Shrimp originates from the Gulf of Mexico's Florida coast. It resembles the flavors of the Yucatán Peninsula. The dish's unique blend of garlic and special spices makes this a light festive meal.



Serves 6

Ingredients:
2 tbsp Yucatan Rub
2 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of two limes
1/4 tsp Cayenne (optional)
Salt, to taste
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions:

1. Marinate the shrimp: in a large bowl, combine Yucatan Rub, garlic, lime juice, cayenne, and salt to taste. 
2. Whisk in the oil. Toss the shrimp in the mixture to coat.
3. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
4. Prepare the grill. Place the shrimp on six skewers and season with reserve marinade. 
5. Grill on high heat, basting frequently with the marinade, until the shrimp are just cooked, about 2 minutes per side.

Serve as an appetizer or as an entree with rice.


Nutrition Information

Yield: 6 skewers
Analysis per one skewer

Calories (kcal)            247
Protein (g)                  38
Carbohydrates (g)      1
Total Dietary Fiber (g) 0
Total Sugars (g)          0
Added Sugar (g)         0
Fat (g)                         9
Saturated Fat (g)        1
Cholesterol (mg)         306
Sodium (mg)               573


Sunday, May 21, 2023

International Day for Biological Diversity

International Day for Biological Diversity 
 2023 Theme 

"From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity"




The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity is pleased to announce the Biodiversity Day 2023 slogan: 

From Agreement to Action
- a theme that urges the world to protect biodiversity.


Although every Biodiversity Day carries with it its own special significance, this year’s global celebrations bring a renewed sense of hope.

Around the world, governments and people are showing what they are doing to Build Back Biodiversity.

Biodiversity remains the answer to several sustainable development challenges. From nature-based solutions to climate, health issues, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity is the foundation upon which we can build back better.

“From individual species through entire ecosystems, biological diversity is vital for human health and well-being. The quality of the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe all depend on keeping the natural world in good health.”

- António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General








Part of the International Day for Biological Diversity focuses on biodiversity as the foundation for our food and health and as a key catalyst for transforming food systems and improving human well-being. Join the conversation, take action, and be a catalyst for change! Below is a list of things that you can do to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity for your well-being:

*Reduce your meat consumption

*Eat and purchase seasonal foods

*Buy local foods

*Reduce your food waste

*Compost your food scraps

*Reduce food packaging by using reusable bags or reusing

  glass jars or containers

*Avoid single-use plastics like plastic straws, coffee cups, 
  plastic cutlery, take out containers or plastic water bottles

*Promote local and indigenous biodiversity for food and 
  nutrition


Resource
1. International Day for Biological Diversity - 2023 Theme










Classic Vanilla Pudding, Light

 Classic Vanilla Pudding, Light

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients

⅓ cup white sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ½ cups milk
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

  • In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  • Add milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens.
  • Add vanilla and continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Pour into individual molds; chill until firm and unmold.
Nutrition Information.

Calories 138; Fat 5.1g; Sat fat 2.7g; Protein 4.4g; Carbohydrate 19g; Cholesterol 85mg; Sodium 126mg; Calcium 132mg





Saturday, May 20, 2023

World Day for Cultural Diversity
Exploring Food Diversity

Today is a beautiful day to celebrate the many cultural foods that makeup American Cuisine. The diversity can be seen as we travel across the country. There are regional differences and the influences of immigrants from all over the world.


New England is known for seafood, particularly lobster and creamy clam chowder. The Southern states are known for collard greens (leafy greens), chicken and dumplings, black-eyed peas, and cornbread. Grits is a popular breakfast dish in the South. The Midwest has traditionally been a beef and grain-producing area, so meats, potatoes, and bread are foods found there. In the Pacific Northwest, fresh salmon is a specialty, and in the Southwest, the Mexican influence can be seen. California and Hawaii are both known for growing many different fruits, and Alaska is known for its fish and King Crab.

As a nation of immigrants, our foods have expanded to include worldwide cuisines, traditions, and religious influences. Many ethnic dishes are joining the American food culture and are seeing an incredible boost in familiarity, approval, and consumption.



Foods from All Over the World

Healthy Choices
Table of Cuisines (from Menu Solutions)

Cuisine
Healthier Choices
Limit
Delicatessen Selections
Extra-lean corned beef, pastrami, or roast beef, beef brisket, and turkey breast are best; whole wheat or multi-grain bread; chicken or tuna salad; chopped herring; chef salad; fresh fruit plate with cottage cheese; dry bagel; borscht or broth soup; tossed salad, sliced tomatoes, beet salad, or carrot raisin salad.
High-fat meats (regular corn beef, hot pastrami, beef bologna, hot dogs, knockwurst, liverwurst, and salami); potato salad; mayonnaise-based salads; combo sandwiches (Reuben); smoked fish (lox); creamy coleslaw; chopped liver; excess cream cheese and cheese spreads; sauerkraut (high in sodium).
Pizza Parlor Selections
You cannot go wrong by ordering extra toppings such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, tomato slices, broccoli, and spinach. Other possibilities include chicken, crab meat, or shrimp.  
Fat starts with the basic cheese, so avoid extra cheese and, in particular, mozzarella. Other culprits include bacon, meatballs, pepperoni, sausage, and prosciutto, as well as anchovies.
Sandwich Shop Selections
Both 100% whole wheat and pita bread are great choices. Good sandwich fillers are grilled chicken breast, ham, roast beef, and turkey breast. Instruct the server not to add butter, margarine, or mayonnaise to the bread and substitute with ketchup, mustard, or horseradish. Good salad choices include chef, garden, or Greek salads, but remember to ask for low-calorie dressings on the side and to omit egg or cheese. Broth-type soups are tasty, such as barley, beef, chicken, lentil, split pea, and vegetable noodles.
Avoid croissants, cheese, excess mayonnaise, egg, and creamy soups. Beware of "diet plates" with big burgers and scoops of cottage cheese, which have loads of saturated fat. Omit cheeseburgers, cheese sandwiches, or grilled cheese "melts" over chicken and seafood salads; and cold cuts. Combo sandwiches with meat and cheese and club sandwiches are best avoided due to the large portion size. Remember that salad combos such as tuna, chicken, and crab meat have lots of mayonnaise. Avoid creamy soups such as chowders or cream of "anything."
Submarine Shop Selections
Order the smaller size roll or pita bread. Turkey, smoked turkey, ham, and roast beef are acceptable. Ask the server to go light on the meats, omit the mayonnaise or oil, and generously load up on the shredded lettuce, onion, peppers, pickles, and sliced tomatoes. Choose salads as alternatives when available, such as chef or tossed salads with perhaps a scoop of tuna, chicken, or seafood served with Italian or pita bread. 
Omit meats such as bologna, Italian cold cuts, salami (hard or Genoa), and sausages. Stay away from cheeses and steak and cheese. Other items to omit include antipasto salads, fried eggplant, and chicken cutlets.
Chinese Selections
Order plain steamed rice; boiled, steamed, or stir-fried vegetables (ask for little oil to be used); moderate fish and shellfish; non-fried tofu; skinless poultry and egg roll (insides only).
Anything fried (rice or crispy noodles), or with sweet and sour sauce; egg dishes or soups; salty soups; avoid duck and limit beef, pork and picked foods; excess soy sauce; ask the chef to leave out MSG and cut down the use of commonly used corn starch, sugar, and salt.
Indian Selections
Order chutney (except mango); curry sauce (yogurt-based); fish (omit butter basting); yogurt with shredded vegetables; basmati rice. Biryani (vegetable dish); chapatti or papadum bread; tandoori chicken; lentil or mulligatawny soups
Creamy or high-salt soups; clarified butter (ghee); deep-fried meats; poori or paratha bread; fried samosa or pakora; ask to prepare dishes without excess salt and to omit coconut milk, if possible; omit garnishes with nuts or dried fruit.
Italian Selections
Order antipasto (no oil or excess meats); crusty bread (no oil or butter); broiled or grilled fish, seafood, chicken, and meats; garlic; plain or vegetable pasta; fresh unsalted mozzarella cheese; steamed leafy vegetables (kale and broccoli); salads; fresh tomatoes; zucchini; ices.
Garlic bread; stuffed pasta (ravioli and lasagna); fried eggplant; meatballs or sausage; sauces with butter, cream, oil, and wine base; pesto sauce; cheese-filled or parmesan style dishes; spumoni or tortoni ice cream. Beware of risotto rice; polenta; and high-fat, high-sodium prosciutto ham and pancetta; veal cutlets and Caesar salads.
Japanese Selections
Order rice; steamed fish; sushi; sashimi; miso soup; raw vegetables; tofu; sukiyaki (stir-fried); yakimono (broiled fish).
Tempura and other deep-fried food; excess peanut and teriyaki sauce; pickled foods; excess salt and sugar in sauces; excess salt in soy marinades and sauces.
Mediterranean (Middle East) Selections
Order couscous, bulgar, and pita bread; legumes such as chickpeas, fava beans, and lentils; hummus; grape leaves; yogurt.
Phyllo dough dishes for sweet desserts such as baklava; feta and kasseri cheese; excess anchovies and olives; high sodium foods; feta, olives, and sausage; appetizers in general, except salads; excess fat from butter, olive oil, omelets, and tahini.
Mexican Selections
Order soft-shell tacos; burritos; fajitas; salsa; chicken enchilada; black beans or Mexican rice; grilled fish or chicken; salads without chips or shells; moderate corn or flour tortilla, using minimal oil; ceviche (marinated fish); gazpacho; chile con carne soup, with no cheese. Acceptable items include shredded lettuce; spicy meats; diced tomatoes; salsa verde; picante or tomato sauce; use Mexican salads as appetizers, with salsa as the dressing.
Chips, nachos; super nachos; chili con queso; fried taco or tortilla shells; guacamole; sour cream; cheese; refried beans; beef and pork dishes; olives; items such as chilies rellenos, chimichangas, chorizo (sausage), and flautas.
Thai Selections
Order steamed rice; broth-based soups (tom yum koang and pok taek); non-fried proteins, such as chicken, seafood, and tofu; vegetables; satay or steamed mussels; salads with light dressings, made with Thai spices.
Excess sodium; soy sauce and sugar; MSG; coconut milk; coconut oil; cream dishes, high milk, and sodium soups; many fried appetizers; curry or curry sauce; fried eggplant; cashew and peanut toppings.

Resources



Celebrate Quiche Lorraine Day with Mexican Quiche


Mexican Quiche

Ingredients
1 refrigerated pie crust
6 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (10-ounce) can tomatoes and green chilies, drained
1 (4 ounces) can diced green chilies, drained
2 ounces diced black olives (canned)
3 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder
1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
1⁄4 teaspoon cumin
1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1⁄8 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions
1. Arrange the pie crust in a pie plate.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the bottom of the crust.
3. Spread drained tomatoes/chilis and green chilis over cheese. Sprinkle olives over top.
4. Mix eggs, sour cream, chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, and garlic powder until well mixed. Pour over mixture in pie crust.
5. Bake at 375 for 50 minutes, until firmly set. Allow to sit 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 slice (1/8 pie): 273 calories; 14 g fat (6 g sat); 3 g fiber; 26 g carbohydrates; 11 g protein; 113 mg cholesterol; 5 g sugars; 0 g added sugars; 120 mg calcium; 3 mg iron; 335 mg sodium




Thursday, May 18, 2023

Food Allergy Awareness Week


The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) was founded in 1991 and is the world’s largest nonprofit organization providing information about food allergy to the media, schools, health professionals, the food industry, pharmaceutical companies, and government officials, as well as the food-allergic community.

FAAN’s mission is to raise public awareness, to provide advocacy and education, and to advance research on behalf of all those affected by food allergy and anaphylaxis.

Respect Every Bite


Food Allergy Bullying: It's Not a Joke




In 1997, FAAN created Food Allergy Awareness Week to educate others about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition.


FAAN’s annual programs include Food Allergy Awareness Week, Food Allergy Conferences, Mariel C. Furlong Awards for Making a Difference, Food Allergy News for Kids Poster Contest, Teen Summit, Trick-or-Treat for Food Allergy, Walk for Food Allergy, Kids’ Congress on Capitol Hill.

For further information on FAAN, visit:
YouTube Channel: FAANPAL

Contact Information:
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network
(800) 929-4040 
http://www.foodallergy.org/



Wednesday, May 17, 2023

National Museum Day
A Look at Food Museums in the United States

Each year, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) Advisory Committee proposes a theme that can be interpreted by museums to promote their issues within society. Due to Covid19, some of the museums may be closed or have limited hours. Check with the ICOM website to view virtual museums.

The museum is an institution for preserving and communicating the past, yet it is grounded in the present. It is a link between the generations, as it allows present and future generations to better comprehend their origins and history.


Resources.

A Look at Food Museums
in the United States




is a non-profit museum based in New Orleans, Louisiana with a mission to explore the culinary history of the American Southern states, to explain the roots of Southern food and drinks. Their exhibits focus on every aspect of food in the South, from the cultural traditions to the basic recipes and communities formed through food. The museum includes a full-service restaurant, a children's gallery, a culinary innovation center, an exhibit for every southern state, and a culinary library. While based in New Orleans, the Museum examines and celebrates all the cultures that have come together through the centuries to create the South’s unique culinary heritage. It brings all races and ethnicity to the table to tell the tale, from the farmer and the homemaker to the line cook and the celebrity chef. The Southern Food and Beverage Museum celebrates, interprets, investigates, entertains, and preserves. A collaboration of many, the Museum allows food lovers from all areas – Southerners and non-Southerners, locals and tourists, academics and food industry insiders - to pull up their chairs and dig into the food and drink of the South. And although based in New Orleans, they bring a message about the entire South to the world through exhibits, a collection of oral histories and videos, and other research. Address: 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, New Orleans, Louisiana 70113



is an open-air museum in the state park system of California, USA, interpreting the historic cultural landscape of the citrus industry. The park preserves some of the rapidly vanishing cultural landscape of the citrus industry and tells the story of the industry's role in the history and development of California. The park recaptures the time when "Citrus was King" in California, recognizing the importance of the citrus industry in southern California. Park address: 9400 Dufferin Ave., Riverside, CA 92504









The company's Wilbur Chocolate Factory in Lititz sells an assortment of Wilbur chocolates and other candy and features the free Candy Americana Museum that tells the history of the company and how their chocolate is made. The exhibits include antique chocolate molds, tins, and boxes, as well as hand-painted European and Oriental antique porcelain chocolate pots. The museum was created by Penny Buzzard, wife of former Wilbur president John Buzzard, and opened in 1972. Wilbur Chocolate Company, 48 North Broad Street, Lititz, PA 17543




is a museum devoted to the potato, located in Blackfoot, Idaho. The rich graphics showcasing the history of the potato will lead you through the revolution of the potato industry. From the original potato planted in Idaho to the largest potato crisp made by the Pringle’s Company in Jackson, TN. The Museum represents significant ties between the railroad and the potato industry and was built in 1912. The Potato Museum provides information on potato history, the growing and harvesting process, nutrition, trivia, and educational potato facts. The museum is located in downtown Blackfoot, Idaho at 130 NW Main St.  



is a museum in Le Roy, New York dedicated to exhibits about Jell-O, operated by the Le Roy Historical Society. JELL-O Gallery is located at 23 E Main St, Le Roy, NY 14482. The Jell-O Gallery has a large new exhibit that reflects Bill Cosby's influence over thirty years. Also, listen to entertainers, such as Kate Smith, Jack Benny, Lucile Ball as they promote the Jell-O product over the radio airwaves. See television personalities Andy Griffith and Gomer Pyle along with Bill Cosby as they pitch about Jell-O.



was established in 1986 to preserve and interpret the maritime history and heritage of Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It accomplishes this mission through an array of exhibits on shrimping, oystering, recreational fishing, wetlands, managing marine resources, charter boats, marine blacksmithing, wooden boat building, net-making, catboats/Biloxi skiff, shrimp peeling machine, and numerous historic photographs and objects. In August 2005, the Museum was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The museum reopened in 2014. 







The shrine promotes the dairy industry and records its history. The National Dairy Shrine's museum contains exhibits about the history of dairying. Dairying objects in its collection include butter churns, milking machines, a treadle, and items used in the Babcock test for the fat content of milk, which was developed nearby at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. National Dairy Shrine brings together dairy producers, scientists, students, educators, marketers, and others who share a desire to preserve our dairy heritage and keep the dairy industry strong. It was founded in 1949. National Dairy Shrine Museum / Hoard Historical Museum, 401 Whitewater Avenue, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538




is a museum in the heart of downtown Middleton, Wisconsin. It boasts a large display of prepared mustards. It is often featured in lists of unusual museums in the United States. 
The museum was conceived and founded by Barry Levenson, former Assistant Attorney General of Wisconsin. It centers on a mustard collection he began in 1986. The initial dozen jars have grown to a collection of more than 5,624 mustards from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. The collection includes exquisite Gibbons Collection of mustard pots to antique tins & jars and vintage advertisements. Address: 7477 Hubbard Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562. 


National Employee Health and Fitness Month


Employees’ Health And Fitness Programs
Workplace Wellness Programs enhance the
overall health and productivity of your organization.

Benefits For Employers
Increase employee productivity
Improve health care costs
Less illness and injuries
Reduce employee absenteeism

Benefits For Employees
Less stress
Improve physical fitness
Better eating habits or weight control
Increase physical and mental health 


Global Employee Health and Fitness Month™ is Administered annually by the National Association for Health and Fitness. NEHF is a national health observance created to promote the benefits of physical activity for individuals through their worksite health promotion activities. Founded in 1989, National Employee Health and Fitness Month has enlisted tens of thousands of participants from employers around the world.

For More Information on how to Improve Employee Health and Fitness visit the following links:
Global Employee Health and Fitness Month

Dietitian Blog List