Hockessin, Del. – In response to growing interest from Moms nationwide, Fruits & Veggies-More Matters® showcases tips and recipes featuring a different fruit and vegetable each month. Survey results show that 90 percent of Moms say it is important to include fruits and vegetables in their family meals, and more than 75 percent are interested in learning how to prepare them in new ways. Moms can find these helpful and easy-to-use tips and recipes each month at www.FruitsandVeggiesMoreMatters.org.
Peaches and Zucchini are the Fruit & Veggie of the Month for August 2010.
Peaches
Peaches originated in China.
* Select: Choose Peaches with firm, fuzzy skins that yield to gentle pressure when ripe. Avoid blemishes.
* Store: Store unripe Peaches in paper bag. When ripe, store at room temperature for use within 1-2 days.
* Nutrition Benefits: Low fat; saturated fat free; sodium free; cholesterol free; good source of vitamin C.
Zucchini
Squash are fleshy vegetables protected by a hard rind. They belong to the plant family that includes melons and cucumbers.
* Select: Choose glossy, small- to medium-sized squash, heavy for size.
* Store: Refrigerate Zucchini for use within 3-4 days.
* Nutrition Benefits: Fat free; saturated fat free; sodium free; cholesterol free; low calorie; high in vitamin C.
Fruits & Veggies-More Matters is a national public health initiative created to encourage Americans to eat more fruits and vegetables-fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100 percent juice. One way Fruits & Veggies-More Matters helps consumers eat healthy is by putting its logo on the packaging of certain food products. In order to carry the Fruits & Veggies-More Matters logo, food products must meet strict nutrition guidelines for total fat, saturated fat, trans-fat, fiber, added sugar, and sodium content. Consumers can look for the Fruits & Veggies-More Matters logo when shopping as an indication that a product is nutritious and to remind them to eat more fruits and vegetables for their better health.
Source: Produce for Better Health Foundation