The world of nutrigenomics becomes more personalized and innovative every day. Learn some of the latest happenings in the field. 

We often choose our food and beverages based on how the products will impact us, such as taste, convenience or health benefits. But have you ever thought about how your food and beverage choices impact the world around us? People are more often making food and beverage choices based on the ethical consequences of consumption. The concept of ‘ethical eating’ refers to the thoughtful consideration of the economic, social, and environmental impacts of consuming foods and beverages. 

Several staple food commodities are imported from other countries, such as bananas, chocolate, coffee, avocados, and seafood to name a few. Because these foods are imported, critical labor regulations fall outside of U.S. jurisdiction. All too often, the labor conditions for these farmers and growers in other countries are poor with unfair wages. The majority of smallholder farmers comprise a large portion of the world’s poor living on less than $2 a day. Sometimes, these workers are forced into unfair labor practices through human trafficking. Further, farmers who struggle to make ends meet are often forced to engage in cheap agricultural practices which can negatively impact the environment. 

When we consume foods that are the product of unfair labor practices, it supports the cycle of poverty and injustice among these farmers and growers. Consumers are becoming more aware of these injustices and are calling for policy reform to protect workers’ rights and increase total transparency throughout the food supply chain. Other ways to take action is to only purchase foods that have the blue and green fairtrade certification label. The Fairtrade certification system exists to certify organizations that meet strict environmental, economic, and social standards that help protect international farmers and growers. The food industry and educated consumers continue to work together to make progress towards a more ethical food supply chain that betters all human lives.

Staying hydrated is important but it doesn’t mean you need to just stick to water! A lot of the foods we eat contain water in them. In fact, Fat-free milk, cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon, lettuce, cabbage, celery, spinach, and pickles all are composed of 90-99% water!

Q: What is monk fruit sweetener? Should I use it?

A: The monk fruit, part of the gourd family, is native to Southern China. The sweetener extracted from the fruit is a non-nutritive sweetener, or a sweetener that is very low in calories or calorie-free. The sweetness is produced by an antioxidant called mogrosides, which contributes to monk fruit sweetener being 100-250 times sweeter than regular sugar. If you are looking for a different sugar substitute, monk fruit sweetener may be for you. Just remember not to use too much, as it is much sweeter than sugar!

Discover the hottest trends in the food industry that affect the way we look at—and eat—food!

Recent trends in the snacking industry have found that protein is one of the most sought after snacking interests in 2021. More and more customers are turning to snacks to help them reach their protein goals. You may have noticed that products such as high protein granola bars, protein cookies, snack mixes, and even high protein brownie and cake mixes are more popular than ever. Protein balls and bites are also fun alternatives, and customers love the ability to get some indulgent protein in a portion controlled, convenient way. Have you been following this trend? What is your go-to protein snack?

Each month, we will be highlighting a seasonal recipe. Happy cooking!

Yogurt Fruit Ice Pops

Cold desserts are more enjoyable in the summer heat. Cool off this summer with these delicious and nutritious Yogurt Fruit Ice Pops. These treats are a great choice for those who need to carefully manage their blood sugar levels. 

Nutrition Analysis for 1 serving:

Calories: 105 kcals 

Fiber: 2g 

Carbohydrates: 14g 

Protein: 6 g 

Fat: 3g

Jamaican Jerk Grilled Eggplant

Summertime calls for backyard cookouts! Switch it up on the grill. Experiment with plant-based meat alternatives such as this Jamaican Jerk Grilled Eggplant recipe from the minimalist baker. 

Nutrition Analysis for 1 serving:

Calories: 75 kcals 

Fiber: 3g 

Carbohydrates: 9g 

Protein: 2g 

Fat: 4g

The absorptive surface area of your intestines is about 300 square meters. That is half the size of a badminton court! 

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