Saturday, March 1, 2025

National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day

The American Peanut Council proclaims peanut butter one of America’s favorite foods. Peanut butter is a good source of protein, niacin, and folate. It is enjoyed by many of all ages.


Below are a few ways to enjoy peanut butter - be creative.





The National Peanut Board has a fun website with recipes, classroom activities, and fun facts. Did you know...

*It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter.

*One acre has enough peanuts to make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches.

*By law, any product labeled "peanut butter" in the United States must be at least 90 percent peanuts.

*Peanut butter has been banned in some schools due to peanut butter allergies. Make sure to read the ingredient label.

A Journey through the Years
with Peanut Butter

Peter Pan Peanut Butter, 1957


1960's Skippy Peanut Butter



Kraft Peanut Butter, 1987




National Frozen Food Day

Plan Meals in Advance





Freezing is an effective form of food preservation because pathogens causing food spoilage are killed or do not grow rapidly at reduced temperatures. However, freezing may only deactivate pathogens. Once the food starts to thaw, pathogens can become active and cause food poisoning. It is important to follow proper procedures for thawing and cooking frozen foods. USDA provides detailed instructions on how to thaw and cook foods properly.


Foods may be preserved for several months by freezing. Long-term frozen storage requires a constant temperature of -18 °C (0 °F) or less to maintain safety and quality. 



Grocery Store Tour - 
Fresh, Frozen or Canned
Tour Guide: Mary Wilson, RD 


Resources

1. Fruits and Veggies, More Matters. Fresh, Frozen, Canned, Dried, and 100% Juice
2. Food & Nutrition Magazine | Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics5 Reasons You Should Be Eating Frozen Foods








Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Pistachio Power: Unshell the Benefits

Pistachios were introduced in the United States in the 1930s. Today, California produces more than 400 million pounds of pistachios each year, making it a leading producer of pistachios worldwide. Each pistachio tree averages around 50 kg of seeds, or around 50,000, every two years.










Recipe
Fruit-Filled Breakfast Tacos with Pistachios
Amy Gorin MS, RDN @AmyGorin  


Pistachios Offer Multiple
Health Benefits

Pistachio nuts, eaten as part of a healthy diet, can increase the levels of antioxidants in the blood of adults with high cholesterol, according to Penny Kris-Etherton, Penn State professor of nutrition, along with an international team of nutritional scientists. Previous research has shown that pistachios also lower lipids and lipoproteins, which benefit heart health.




To learn more about the Pistachio, visit the following links:
Website. Pistachio Health



Sunday, February 23, 2025

Food Connects Us: Celebrating National Nutrition Month 2025

Food is more than just sustenance—it is a universal language, a bridge between cultures, communities, and generations. The 2025 theme for National Nutrition Month, "Food Connects Us," highlights the powerful role food plays in fostering relationships, preserving traditions, and promoting health and well-being.




The Cultural Connection

Every culture has its own unique culinary traditions, yet food unites us all in ways that transcend geographical and societal differences. Whether it’s gathering for a family meal, sharing a holiday feast, or learning about new cuisines, food creates opportunities for connection and understanding. Exploring diverse foods broadens our palates and deepens our appreciation for different backgrounds and traditions.

Food as a Social Bond

Food has the ability to bring people together, from intimate dinners to large celebrations. It fosters a sense of community, strengthens relationships, and creates memories. Sitting down to a shared meal encourages conversation and strengthens emotional bonds, whether with family, friends, or even strangers.

Nourishment and Well-being

Beyond emotional and cultural ties, food connects us through its impact on health. Good nutrition fuels our bodies, supports mental health, and helps prevent chronic diseases. By making mindful food choices, we can take charge of our well-being while also encouraging our loved ones to prioritize their health.

Sustainability and Global Impact

Food connects us to the environment and the broader global community. The choices we make about food production and consumption influence the sustainability of our planet. Supporting local farmers, reducing food waste, and making eco-conscious choices all contribute to a healthier world for future generations.

Celebrating National Nutrition Month

This National Nutrition Month, embrace the theme "Food Connects Us" by:

  • Trying new recipes from different cultures

  • Cooking and sharing meals with loved ones

  • Learning about the health benefits of various foods

  • Supporting sustainable food practices

Let’s use food as a tool to connect, nourish, and celebrate life together. After all, every bite tells a story, and every meal is an opportunity to bring people closer.

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