On the surface, Fair Trade is a social movement: a grassroots movement with a goal. Fair Trade products are made with the people and the planet in mind. Fair Trade Certified explains that those with this certification, “[build] a global model around the concept that economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods are the basis for a market that works for everyone.” Fair Trade works to ensure that farmers in developing nations gain improved working and trading conditions. It also works to improve sustainable farming practices and thriving healthy communities.   How Does it Work? Anything that is Fair Trade Certified has… Read More

 Burying the Lead It was simply tough times and difficult choices.  A little more than a week before the 2016 United States presidential election, the New York Times ran this story that rocked a number of people.   Because of its timing, however, the story was lost in the controversy of that contentious election. In journalistic terms, it is called “Burying the Lead.”  All eyes were on Trump versus Clinton. There was little fanfare about a topic that was so critical to everyday lives.  Nevertheless, the overarching theme of the piece written by Danny Hakim on OCT. 29, 2016 resonates with everyone… Read More

  If you ever find yourself traveling in the southern part of the United States, you owe it to yourself to make your way to Albany, Georgia.  Albany prides itself on its 600,000 Pecan tress.  Now, Pecan trees can get up to anywhere from 66 to 121 feet high and they can live for around 200 years.  They are stunningly beautiful and serene. I am not suggesting chucking out all the antidepressants and heading to Albany to solve all of your problems; however, a picnic under the Pecan trees while listening to the Allman Brothers play “Melissa,” might prove good… Read More

It’s National Peanut Month! Yet again, we find a national holiday for as many food-related items as possible. Bet you didn’t know that March is National Peanut Month.  Catch your breath; I know I just rocked your world.  OK, maybe rocked is too strong a word.   Stunned, shocked, staggered, or even astonished is also probably over the top but we are talking peanuts, folks…peanuts!  Actually, up until 1974 it was just National Peanut Week, but wise men and women came to their senses, recognized the error of their ways and presto changeo, wisdom prevailed throughout the land and they gave… Read More

This year, in honor of National Banana Bread Day, we wanted to bring you a list of tips to help you modify your favorite recipes to make them a bit healthier, or even just to modify them to whatever your diet requirements are. Whether you want to focus on all natural sugars, going gluten free, or reducing your fat, try out any of these modifications to make your banana bread work for you, and still be delicious.   Going Gluten Free   Whenever trying to substitute a gluten free flour for breads, cakes or scones, make sure to check if your… Read More

Almonds are an amazing nut that are praised for their benefits all over the world. They are the most popular nut in America, and are respected for a wide range of health benefits. You can eat them in a variety of ways: raw, oil roasted, dry roasted, sprouted, glazed and more. They are a staple in trail mixes, snack bars, cereals, and even desserts! In honor of National Almond Day, here are some of the amazing health benefits of almonds. Health Benefits of Almonds Studies show that almonds eaten mid morning can help to regulate your blood sugar levels. Their… Read More