| Dear Mary,
In this issue we take a look at some of the food trends you will be seeing in 2011. |
Growing & Preserving at Home
Consumers are so concerned with the amount of additives in the produce they are buying that Farmer's Markets are seeing impressive growth. According to the USDA, there are over 6,100 markets nationwide, a 16% increase from 2009.
Concerns about processed foods are driving some to grow and then can their own produce. The Ball Company, which manufactures jars, is making it even easier for the novice canner. They now sell the Ball® Canning Discovery Kit. This kit contains everything you need to start canning and at only $11.50 you will quickly recoup your investment.
Canning website |
Smartphone Strudel
The popularity of the iPhone, Droid, and other Smartphones (cell-phones that act like mini computers) allow users to have thousands of recipes at their fingertips. Applications from such well-known celebrity chefs as Rachael Ray and Nigella Lawson vie with the Food Network and Epicurious magazine to squeeze your last dollar. Convenient yes, but based on ratings and comments from those using these products, you'd be better off with that old-fashioned cookbook. |
A Manly Kitchen
This recession has been predominantly hard on men. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of unemployed men aged 20 and older doubled from 3.7 million in May 2008 to 7.5 million in May of 2009. Ergo, more men are taking over the previously female dominated job of cooking for the family. The internet and cable television can't wait to impart cooking wisdom on the greenhorn cook. A favorite site of ours is Men in Aprons. This website has videos, recipes, and guides (how to make scrambled eggs) in that no nonsense style men love. We are particularly fond of the article, 10 ways to make your burgers better. Yummy!
Men in Aprons |
The Next "Super Food"
Wheat grass, pomegranate juice, acai berries, the list of previous so-called super foods are now vying for space on supermarket shelves with the next big thing. In 2011, look for more products made with this super food freshman class: Quinoa-a grain that is loaded with protein; Flax seeds-a vegetarian alternative to salmon for omega 3 fatty acid; Black rice- rich in anthocyanin antioxidants; Raw Cacao-this powdered cousin to chocolate will elevate your mood with PEA and anandamide. |
