The GMO (genetically modified organism) seed timeline in Hawaii goes back to the mid-90s. An outbreak of ringspot virus destroyed most of Hawaii’s rainbow papaya crops, causing production to fall 40%. To combat the virus, a University of Hawaii professor genetically engineered a ringspot-resistant strain of papayas. Shortly afterwards these modified rainbow papaya seeds were handed out free to farmers, and the rest, they say, is history.
Let’s talk about food waste. I will be completely honest--I am writing this article for my benefit as well as yours. I am definitely guilty of contributing to the food waste problem and need a little push to make changes. Maybe having one too many food safety classes in college, now combined with a busy life, has contributed to my challenge but food waste definitely occurs in our home. Whatever your reason, we as individuals can make a big difference and I will join you in making a sincere effort to reduce the amount of food waste my household contributes to landfills.
Gone are the days of the only non-dairy milk options being soy or rice milk. More and more people are drinking non-dairy milk because of personal preferences and allergies and intolerances to cow’s milk. Fortunately the amount of options has increased significantly but it may leave you feeling overwhelmed when trying to choose. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the non-dairy aisle.
Parents often pass down more than genes to children – habits are usually picked up too! Keep reading for some healthy habits you can cultivate in your kids just in time for going back to school.
More than forty years ago Down to Earth Organic & Natural opened its first humble store in Wailuku, Maui. Over the decades Down to Earth has changed, grown, and moved to fill the demands of the people of Hawaii who want local, fresh, organic, vegetarian, and natural foods and products.
Down to Earth moved it's Kailua store from its former 6,000 square foot Kailua store on Hamakua Dr. into a 15,000 square foot space that has been re-developed by Alexander & Baldwin Inc., as part of the new “Lau Hala Shops” located at 573 Kailua Road.
People are often surprised to hear that the corn they are eating with meals doesn’t really count as a vegetable, or may be hindering their weight loss goals. If you are included in that group of people, let’s chat.
First, let’s talk about the difference between starchy and non-starchy vegetables. Keep in mind that starchy vegetables aren’t “bad” and can fit into a healthy diet, but you just want to watch portion sizes.
Summer is in full swing, which means it’s picnic season – time to dust off the picnic blanket, gather with your loved ones, enjoy the gorgeous Hawaii weather, and of course, eat lots of tasty bites! You can always pack the healthy basics, like crackers, chips, nuts, and dried fruit, or you can ditch those and dig into these alternatives in your picnic hamper.
Grilling is a great way to cook delicious, heart-healthy food without added fat, and without losing an ounce of flavor. Grilling brings out and intensifies the flavor of tofu, tempeh, veggie burgers, vegetables – and even fruit – by offering a smoky and robust flavor, along with a hearty texture from the grill.
June 3rd - 9th is Hemp History Week, a public education campaign to raise awareness about the environmental sustainability, health benefits, regenerative agriculture potential, and new technological applications of industrial hemp.
Probiotics receive a lot of attention and buzz for their role in promoting healthy digestion and supporting the immune system. It is likely that you already consume foods rich in probiotics or take supplements that contain probiotics to receive the health benefits. But did you ever take a moment to think about creating an optimal environment for the live cultures, also known as good bacteria, so that they can flourish in your gut and provide optimal benefits?