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Holiday Travel Tips To Make It Fun And Get Rid Of The Stress

Holiday Travel Tips To Make It Fun And Get Rid Of The Stress 0

The holidays are coming and for a lot of us that means traveling to go see our families. It could be on a plane or across town. Either way, we've got tips that will help you be safe, enjoy yourself, and de-stress the whole thing so you can relax.

Home And Family Crafts: 5 Best Ways To Celebrate The National Craft Month 0

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Did you know that students who participate in a project in arts and crafts are four times more likely to be high performers in academics? Crafting is fun for children, whether it’s making fluffy pompoms, paintings, or decorations. Home and family crafts are an excellent outlet for stress and allow daily inspiration for both children and adults, plus it is a lot of fun. Who said you couldn’t do all the fun stuff just because you are no longer a child?  

March is the National Craft Month. It provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to join ideas together and come up with creative pieces. Craft enthusiasts get together and participate in home and family crafts such as coloring, painting, sewing, and knitting. Artists hold content and give special promotions. Whether you want to try a new hobby or learn a new skill, there are various ways to celebrate the craft month. 

History of the National Craft Month

In 1994, the Craft and Hobby Association set up the craft month to help people to rediscover the joy and benefits of crafting.2  The month is all about discovering new home and family crafts and finding or rediscovering hobbies.

How to celebrate National Craft Month

Learn a new hobby

During this month, artisans and crafters work together to create inspiring art projects.  It is an excellent opportunity for you to start a new hobby or share with your family and friends on what you have been working on and introduce your child to crafting.

There is a wide range of home and family crafts to choose from paints, wood, metals, paper, and wood; whatever inspires you, choose to bring your craft idea into reality this month. Learning a new craft will help you to express your creativity and provides stress relief from the usual pressures of life.

Moreover, you feel more confident when you learn a new skill. You can also enroll your child in a school that teaches craft. It is an excellent way for your child to learn new skills and shape them up for the future.

Craft in a group

Can you paint it? Can you sew? Making home and family crafts in a group is a great social event. You can involve your coworkers and friends to create projects that you have interest in and items for charity purposes, like making blankets for premature babies or painting to give children admitted to the hospital. Whatever charity you decide to support, your efforts are valuable, and it will be fulfilling.

Spend time with your children and make some art

Get your children off TV and game consoles and allow them to learn home and family crafts that will shape their future. Join them to make cards or paint and nurture that skill. Allow them to explore their inner artistic nature. Enroll your child to art school if they have a particular interest in arts and crafts, or if you want them to learn a hobby.

Make cards and gifts to your friends and family and explore the inner artist in you. Handmade cards may not be perfect, but it is the thought that counts. Make yours to share what you made on social media with #nationalcraftmonth so that your followers can take a look at your creativity.

Attend local craft events

In case you cannot make any home and family crafts, visit the nearest local craft centers and support the local artists by buying jewelry, scrapbooks, decoration cards, and knitwear. Check for local craft events and festivals and meet people with similar interests in crafts.

Explore nature

You can go to the beach and collect shells which you can paint in different colors.  You can use pine cones and leaves to create art. Go outdoors and take photos. Photography is also a form of art that allows you to capture the present moment and appreciate the environment around you. Go in a group because it is more exciting.

Grab your paintbrush or scissors and get crafting this National Craft Month.  It is time to learn a new home and family craft skill. Whether you’re an amateur or professional, let out the creativity in you. Don’t forget to share your projects with others and use #nationalcraftmonth and #motherearthproducts on social media. Happy crafting.

References

  1. https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-craft-month-march/
  2. https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/craft-month/
  3. https://www.marthastewart.com/1512278/ways-partake-national-craft-month
  4. https://www.wikihow.com/Celebrate-National-Craft-Month

Everything You Need to Know about Johnny Appleseed Day 0

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Johnny Appleseed Day is an opportunity to honor the man who passionately introduced apple trees across many parts of the country.1 He was also a missionary and among the first American conservationists.2

While other people celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day on September 26, on his birthday, others celebrate it on March 11, which coincides with the prime planting season for apples.1 Either way, it is important to commemorate the works of the man who made apple trees bloom all over the nation. His works should never go unnoticed.

Where was Johnny Appleseed born?

Johnny Appleseed was born John Chapman on September 26, 1774, in Leominster, Massachusetts. He had two siblings, including his brother who died at infancy.2 When his mother died when he was two years old, his father moved to Springfield, Massachusetts, with him and his sister.1

Johnny started propagating apple seeds in Pennsylvania and moved steadily to West Virginia, Ohio, and Indiana. He moved further to Illinois and Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin. He planted orchards, and he would occasionally visit to take care of them.2

He would also teach people on the teachings of Swedish theologian, Emmanuel Swedenborg. He planted the apple seeds free, along with the lessons.3 He would sell the orchards once they developed, and used the proceeds to buy books written by Emmanuel Swedenborg, which he would give people for free.1

He mostly traveled by foot, often shoeless, and always wore brimmed pasteboard to keep the sun away from his eyes. Other times, he traveled by horse or canoe. He walked for miles every day and slept outdoors. True to his name, he always carried a bag with apple seeds. He was widely known for his kindness that people consistently showed up when he came calling.1

One admirable thing to note about his love for tending to apple trees, he would travel many miles to nurture an ailing orchard when he was learned of its poor condition. Bringing such trees back to health was his chief endeavor. 2 Known for his strict stand on treating animals with kindness, including mosquitoes and rattlesnakes in line with the Swedenborgian doctrine that insisted that a life of religion is to do good to both people and animals.3 He always shared his wisdom, care, and kindness to people. Many people believe that John Chapman died on March 18 at the age of 70 years.

How to commemorate Johnny Appleseed Day

There are various landmarks over the country to honor Johnny Appleseed. In his hometown Springfield, Massachusetts, there is a park named after him. In Pennsylvania, people claim his first tree nursery is in Mansfield, and there is his monument in South Park.2 Consider visiting a landmark for Johnny Appleseed near you. Share the stories about him with others, and don’t forget to post #johnnyappleseed and #motherearthproducts on social media.

Although the day is not a popular holiday, people who celebrate it do by planting apple trees or savoring apples or apple products. Savor a delicious apple and share it with your family and friends. Here are three apple recipes you can try out to commemorate the Johnny Appleseed Day.

1. Baked apples4

This dessert is perfect when you need a quick last-minute dessert fix. It is delicious and budget-friendly. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

  • 4 apples
  • 5 tablespoon granola
  • ½ tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon soft brown sugar
  • ½ orange zest and juice
  • 1 ½ butter
  • Vanilla ice cream to serve

Method

  • Preheat the oven to 400° F.
  • Mix the granola, the sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and juice.
  • Heat oven to 350°-400° F. Mix the granola, the sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest and juice. Core apples and put them on a baking tray. Spoon the granola mixture into the hole, spooning over any juice left. Top each one with tablespoon of butter and bake for 30 minutes until soft and sticky. Serve with a scoop of crème fraîche or ice cream.

2. Spinach Apple salad5

Ingredients

  • 1 apple
  • 1 pear
  • Your favorite dressing
  • ½ cup walnuts or pecans
  • 3 cups spinach
  • 3 cups mixed greens

Method

  • Make glazed walnuts or pecans by coating them with pure maple syrup. Simmer the nuts and maple syrup for 6 to 8 minutes in a non-stick skillet. Stir constantly to avoid it getting burned. Then remove from the heat. Place them in a parchment paper and let them cool at room temperature.
  • Prepare your favorite salad dressing. You can prepare it in advance and keep it refrigerated, but keep it in room temperature right before serving.
  • Remove the core from pear and apple. Then, cut them into thin slices.
  • Place the mixed greens and spinach on serving plates then top with the apples, pears, and walnuts. Pour the dressing. You can add machego cheese when you serve.

3. Apple Salad6

This apple salad is delicious and refreshing with the tart from lemon and pop of the marshmallows. Your family will thank you for it. Toast the nuts before adding for a crunchy feel.

Ingredients

  • ½ inch cubed apples
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Method

Toss apples and lemon juice in a large bowl. Add celery and marshmallow, and stir in mayonnaise. Cover and refrigerate until ready for serving. Stir in the pecans before you serve.

Happy Johnny Appleseed Day from us at Mother Earth Products. Do try out these recipes with our freeze dried products and share your feedback in the comments section below.

References

  1. https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-johnny-appleseed-day-september-26/
  2. http://www.holidayscalendar.com/event/johnny-appleseed-day/
  3. https://www.britannica.com/story/was-johnny-appleseed-a-real-person
  4. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/granola-baked-apples
  5. https://www.acouplecooks.com/spinach-pear-and-apple-pecan-salad/
  6. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/delicious-apple-salad/

6 Fun Things to Do With Your Kids on President's Day 0

President's Day
Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Let's be honest: When people think of February, they immediately conjure up images of Valentine's Day desserts and homemade soups. But, honestly, these are just a few of the perks as the leap month is also "host" to a very special celebration: President's Day.

The annual holiday honors all past presidents and the presidency itself and could serve as an opportunity for you to teach your little ones about the importance of the institution. So, if you want to keep them engaged during that long weekend, here are six fun things you can do on President's Day with your family and/or kids.

What is President's Day?

Also known as Washington's Birthday, President's Day is an annual federal holiday that is celebrated on the third Monday of February. The red-letter day was established by the Congress in 1885(1) in honor of the first U.S. president and founding father, George Washington.

Initially, the holiday was celebrated on February 22th, which was Washington's Birthday. But, in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act(2), which moved several holidays from fixed dates to designated Mondays to increase the number of three-day weekends throughout the year.

By moving the date, many were led to believe that President's Day was also meant to commemorate Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday was on February 12th. That's why the celebration ended up serving as a tribute to all past presidents and their contribution to our country.

6 Fun Ways to Celebrate President's Day

1. Schedule a Road Trip to a Historical Location

If you live within a reasonable driving distance from a historical location (i.e., a national landmark, a district with historical significance, or a presidential birthplace), it'd be a good idea to go on a road trip with your family. In fact, depending on the proximity of the location, you could organize a day trip or spend the entire three-day weekend there as you sink into its history. It's totally up to you!

And if you live near Washington, D.C., note that you'll be hard-pressed to find a more appropriate place than Alexandria, Virginia. The city holds the country's largest President's Day Parade with marching bands and historical reenactments filling the streets where Washington himself once roamed.

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is another praiseworthy destination as it offers an array of special events such as wreath-laying ceremonies, storytelling demonstrations, and other historical activities that kids can't help but love.

2. Take a Virtual Tour

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., features a permanent exhibition called The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden (3). This presentation grants visitors an insight into the lives and contributions of the men who led our nation since its founding through 900 historical objects and artifacts.

However, heading to D.C. and paying a visit to the museum isn't for everyone – which is why you could take your little one on a virtual tour of the exhibit. The online platform allows you to look up each president and read everything regarding the objects featured and their connection to the presidency. The tour also provides online visitors with glimpses of the day-to-day life in the White House.

3. Make Themed Crafts

Another fun way to celebrate President's Day with your kid is to engage in some good old crafts. The best part about this activity is that it doesn't require any fancy equipment. All you have to do is get creative with the things you already own, i.e., coloring pens, paper, glue, glitter, etc. Lincoln's signature top hat and the presidential powdered wig (out of cotton balls) are two very easy options. But, if you feel like taking things up a notch, here's a short list of all the crafts you can take up:

4. Dine Like a President

We all know that long weekends are the perfect chance to get the family together and enjoy some of the tastiest home-cooked meals. But, given the holiday's theme, you could add a little presidential flair to the mix. That being said, recreate some of the dishes that made our former presidents weak in the knees (7), whether it's Roosevelt's beloved Yum Dogs or Nixon's favorite meatloaf. The Mount Vernon website(8) even shares some of George Washington's go-to recipes, allowing you to feast like it was 1799 all over again. But, if you don't feel like going that fancy, you can stick to basics by baking a flag pizza(9), whipping up a batch of these regal eagle cookies(10), or popping a bowl of blue, white, and red popcorn(11) for the kids. The options are endless!

Friendly tip 1: You can even ask your mini-me’s to help around in the kitchen and make this occasion a family matter.

Friendly tip 2: Since some of the recipes could be tricky, you can simplify the process by adding dried vegetables or freeze dried fruits. They are just as tasty and nutritious as the real deal and are already chopped, which shall cut your prepping time in half.

5. Put on a Play

This activity may sound like a lot of work, but it's totally worth it, especially if your little one is a natural at acting. That said, you can have them reenact the most memorable presidential speeches (in their own way, of course) or play out a "Day in the Life" as instructed by several children's' books. To get things started, design his/her costume (don't worry if it's not perfect), practice a few lines here and there, and let them have at it. You can even set up a play date with other parents, and along with your kids, write your own story about a president, and then have them star in it.

6. Write a Letter to the White House

It's never too early to teach your kids that speaking your mind is a good thing – especially if you have something valuable to bring to the table. So, for this President's Day, have your little one write a letter to the President or even the First Lady. Urge them to share their hopes, feelings, and ideas for the future, and forward their message to the White House. Just make sure you follow the guidelines (12) so that their letter doesn't get rejected.

How will you celebrate President's Day? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

1. https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/presidents-day

2. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-82/pdf/STATUTE-82-Pg250-3.pdf

3. https://americanhistory.si.edu/presidency/

4. http://funfamilycrafts.com/bald-eagle-magnet/

5. http://www.icanteachmychild.com/2011/02/future-presidents/

6. https://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2013/02/presidents-day-craft-for-toddlers-kids.html

7. https://food52.com/blog/9784-17-presidents-favorite-foods-for-presidents-day

8. https://www.mountvernon.org/inn/recipes/

9. https://www.marthastewart.com/1117961/american-pie

10. http://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2013/06/july-4th-regal-eagle-cookies.html

11. https://blog.onlinelabels.com/2018/02/05/patriotic-popcorn-for-presidents-day/

12. https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

13. https://www.rd.com/culture/celebrate-presidents-day-children/

Veterans Day History and Its Significance 0

Veterans Day History
Photo by Craig Adderley from Pexels

Veterans Day is an opportunity to celebrate the U.S veterans who fought hard in the world wars, or any other wars, with sacrifice and bravery. It was originally called “Armistice Day,” and it was first celebrated on November 11, 1919.1 Congress passed a resolution to have Veterans Day as a holiday in 1926, and it became a national holiday in 1938.2

Currently, it is celebrated annually on November 11 to honor the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” of 1918 when the World War I ended.3 It is crucial that all Americans understand the Veterans Day history and know why it is important to celebrate it every year in honor of former service members.

Veterans Day History

Veterans Day was formerly known as Armistice Day. It was a U.S holiday that was set aside to commemorate the end of World War 1. 1 Although World War 1 officially ended on June 28, 1919, with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, the actual cease fire between the Allies and Germany was on November 11, 1918.4

It became a holiday in the United States in 1926. It was commemorated as Armistice Day in honor of World War I veterans. The date was dedicated to the cause of world peace. On 1st June 1954, the name was changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day by the 83rd U.S Congress strike out the word “Armistice” and inserted “Veterans” by amending the Act of 1938.2 The move was because the country had been through both World War II and the Korean War after the veterans' service organizations pushed for the change.

After the approval of the legislation on June 1, 1954, on November 11, it became a holiday to honor American veterans who had fought in all wars. However, in 1968, in a bid to have three day weekends for federal employees, who saw that all four national holidays (Washington’s Birthday, Columbus Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day) were celebrated on Mondays, the Veterans Day commemoration was moved to the fourth Monday of October via the Uniforms Holiday Bill by the Congress.1

 The first Veterans Day under the new law was celebrated on October 25th, 1971. Many states of America did not approve of this move, and they continued to observe the holiday on the original date. On September 20, 1975, the Veterans Day commemoration was returned to its original date when President Gerald Ford signed a law a bill that reverted the holiday to November 11. 1 In 1978, Congress approved the change to the original date in 1978. The change was because November 11 had historical significance to most Americans. From then forward, Veterans Day is observed on November 11.3

The difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day

Most Americans confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day.  Veterans Day commemorates all veterans, living or dead, who served in the military with special gratitude to living veterans who have served the country during war or peacetime, while Memorial Day celebrates military service members who died while in service to their country or due to the injuries sustained during battle

Celebrating the Veterans Day in America

Currently Veterans Day is commemorated every November 11th. If the holiday falls on Saturday, the federal government observes the holiday on Friday, while if it falls on Sunday, the government celebrates it on Monday. State governments decide when to close for the holiday. However, for non-governmental institutions and businesses, they can close or remain open at their discretion without the influence of the federal, state, or local government operation.

The Senate passed Resolution 143 on August 4, 2001, and established the week of November 11 until November 17, 2001, as the National Veterans Awareness Week. The resolutions seek to increased awareness at elementary and secondary school students about the sacrifice and effort of the veterans to the United States.2

Celebrating Veterans Day in other countries

November 11th is a national holiday in France and most allied nation’s countries. Countries that celebrate veterans include Britain, France, and Australia. These countries celebrate the veterans who fought during World War I and World War II on November 11th or any close date to it.2

In France and Belgium, it is celebrated as Armistice Day. In Britain and most commonwealth nations, it is celebrated as Remembrance Sunday on the second Sunday of November, while in Canada, they celebrate Remembrance Day.3 In Europe, including Britain as well as commonwealth counties, people observe two minutes of silence at 11.am every November 11. However, it is not a public holiday.4

Interesting Veterans Facts

Veterans include men and women who have served in the US military to protect the country and its people. They are from all economic classes and are an important parts of their communities.  Currently, there are 18.2 million veterans who are alive and served in at least one war as of 2018; nine percent of them are women. Seven percent of them served during the Vietnam War, seven million of them served during the Persian Gulf War, and two million of them served during the Korean War. Most veterans are from Connecticut as of 2018, and they make up the highest percentage of World War II veterans.3

It is important to note that 496,777 out of the 16 million veterans who fought during World War II were still alive as of 2018. The top three states with the highest percentage of veterans as of 2017 include Alaska, Maine, and Montana.3 

Veterans Day celebrations are an important holiday in the U.S. to celebrate all veterans who serve or have served in the military. It includes ceremonies, parades and speeches, and community events. Most restaurants, food stores, and companies, including Mother Earth Products, also honor the veterans and the families with special offers and discounts and at times, free meals.

References

  1. https://www.military.com/veterans-day/history-of-veterans-day.html
  2. https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp
  3. https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/veterans-day-facts
  4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_Day

15 Best Autumn Produce To Enjoy This Season 0

Autumn Produce
Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Autumn brings a bountiful harvest of healthy and delicious products, such as apples, pears, and sweet potatoes. The cool temperatures during autumn is ideal for baking, stewing, or braising; cooking methods that you probably shun in hot summer weather. Autumn brings seasonal goodies like squash, cranberries, crispy apples, and juicy pears.

Buying fruits or vegetables when they are in season is the best way to ensure that you get more nutritious produce. However, you can use dehydrated or freeze dried products all year long, because they are harvested at their peak maturity and freeze dried or dried to prolong their shelf life. Make the most of autumn produce in the market this season with this guide for buying the best autumn produce.

Apples

Apple is delicious autumn fruit that is rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins like vitamin C, which slows down the aging process and reduce the risk of cancer.1 Apples are good sources of fiber, vitamin B6, and manganese. Use apples to make jam, in desserts, or eat them as a snack. Buy apples that are firm and have no bruises or blemishes. Once you’ve purchased them, let the apples soften at room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator for two to four days.

Cruciferous vegetables

Cabbage is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C and also contains glucosinolates, which have cancer-fighting potential.2 Other cruciferous vegetables with the same benefit include Brussels sprouts. These vegetables are low in sodium and cholesterol and have low caloric value; they are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and folate.1 Buy cabbage that has firm and dense heads. Their leaves should be crisp and have no blemishes, cracks, or yellow patches, which are signs of decay. Store cabbage in perforated plastic bags on the lowest drawer in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Buy Brussels sprouts that are firm and with bright green heads. Buy Brussel sprouts with their stalks so that they can stay fresh for longer and avoid those that have yellow outer leaves.  Store them for up to one week in the refrigerator in plastic bags. You can use Brussels sprouts in salads, roast them, or add them to sauces.

Squash

Squash has beta-carotene, which promotes good eyesight. It is also rich in vitamin C and low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol.1 Buy squash that is firm and heavy for their size and free from spots, wrinkled skin, or cracks. Store squash in a cool and dry area away from heat and sunlight for up to three months. Use squash to make soups or add them to the main dishes.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a low-fat food abundant with vitamin C and folate. It is a good source of dietary fiber and potassium.2 When buying broccoli, check for bluish-green florets tight heads. You can refrigerate broccoli and use within five days. Broccoli is perfect for salads, soups, vegetable rice, or fried to make an omelet.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is plentiful in Autumn. Select firm and dense cauliflower with crisp leaves. Avoid cauliflower with bruises, blemishes, or brown spots. Store cauliflower in perforated plastic bags in the refrigerator for up to two days. Once cooked, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. It can be eaten raw or cooked. Add them to salads or roast them.

Beetroot

Beets are available all year round, but they are their best quality during Autumn. When shopping for beets, look out for firm bulb with bright green leaves. When you use beets to make salads, roast them to activate betaine, which is a compound that helps to prevent the risk of heart disease and liver issues. It also has nitrate, which increases the flow of blood to the brain and reduces the risk of dementia.2

Cranberries

Cranberries are abundant from September to November. Most of it is dried and canned or turned into juice concentrate. Cranberries are a good source of fiber and vitamin C. They have no fats or cholesterol and are low in sodium.  Fresh cranberry juice prevents oral diseases and also slows down the growth of cancer. Cranberry juice concentrate helps to prevent urinary tract infections and can prevent recurrent infections in women.1 Select firm cranberries that have not withered and refrigerate them up to two months, or freeze them for longer. Use cranberries to make salads, guacamole, smoothies, or sauces.

Pears

Pears are excellent sources of fiber and contain vitamin C. They are free from fat, sodium, and cholesterol.2 Select firm pears and store them in a plastic bag at room temperature. To know if the pear is ripe, apply gentle pressure to the end of the stem with your thumb. If it gives in to pressure, it is ripe, and you can refrigerate them to slow down ripening. Eat pears whole or add them to salads, sauces,  or fruit compote.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes boast a high content of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.1  Vitamin A promotes healthy vision and healthy skin, especially for young children.2 They are low in sodium and free from cholesterol and fat. They are also rich in dietary fiber. Buy sweet potatoes that have firm skin with no cracks or blemishes. Store them in a cool and dark place and use them within three weeks. When possible, buy them shortly before you want to use them. Don’t refrigerate uncooked sweet potatoes because the cold temperature will make them toughen and affect their flavor.  Their natural sweetness makes them great for desserts, but they can also be roasted, added to soup, or baked.

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are an excellent source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which promotes healthy vision and growth of cells.  They are rich in vitamin C and are free from fat, cholesterol, and sodium.1 Pumpkin seeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that are good for people with heart diseases, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Buy firm and heavy pumpkins and store them in a cool and dark place for up to two months.

Persimmons

Persimmons are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.1  They are free from cholesterol, sodium, and fat.2 Look out for smooth, bright, and plump persimmons that have their leaf still attached. Avoid buying them if they have cracks or bruises. If they have yellow patches the fruit is not ripe. Store persimmons at room temperature until they soften. Refrigerate ripe persimmons for up to three days.

Pineapple

Pineapples are rich in vitamin C, have low sodium content, and free from fat.1 Select pineapples that have dark green leaves and are heavy. Avoid pineapples with soft or dark spots, and if their leaves look dry. Eat ripe pineapples as soon as possible. Refrigerate cut chunks of ripe pineapple for up to three days. Use pineapple slices in salads, and add them to smoothies or fruit compote.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. They are rich in potassium, folate, and copper.2 They are free from sodium, cholesterol, and are low in fat.1 Select the fruit that’s plump, round, and heavy for its size. Store whole pomegranates in a cool and dry place for up to one month, or up to two months in the refrigerator.

Grapes

Grapes are a good source of vitamin C. They are cholesterol and fat-free and have negligible sodium content. Select plump and firm grapes attached to the stem. Avoid wrinkled or soft stems. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.  Add grapes to salads, smoothies, cocktails, sauces, or eat them as a snack.

Guava

Guava is an excellent autumn produce that is an excellent source of Vitamin C; it also contains potassium, vitamin A, folate, and fiber.1 It is free from cholesterol and sodium and low in fat. Buy guavas without blemishes and only those that give in to gentle pressure. Store them at room temperature until they soften. Refrigerate soft ripen guavas for up to four days.

Autumn does seem to have all the best fruits and vegetables that we do our best to eat year round. Eating these delicious fruits and vegetables not only benefit the body, but taste delicious, wonderful, and add variety to our lives and kitchens. If you’re unable to get any of these items or even are unable to rotate fresh produce through your kitchens and fridges fast enough, consider buying the freeze dried and dried versions of them to ensure that you get the best of autumn produce all year round, and to eliminate the need for worrying about rotting produce - Mother Earth Products.

References

  1. https://fruitsandveggies.org/stories/whats-in-season-fall/
  2. https://greatist.com/health/healthiest-fruits-and-vegetables-fall#6