Well, I'm sitting here trying to decide on a topic for the column. Since I usually write for two (or more) weeks ahead of print date, writing for the first Wednesday in the new year 2000, presents a challenge. Do I need to give you a few hints on how to prepare a meal with no power? If that happens to be the case, you won't get the paper anyway because there will be no power to print. So maybe I should just skip this writing and save some time and energy!
Joking aside, I feel confident that you will be reading the Times News on Wednesday, January 5, 2000, so here goes!
The new year will bring new nutrition and wellness research information to us. We already have the revised Dietary Guidelines for Americans available. A new Food Guide Pyramid for children has been released that includes an activity component. More and more research is being done in Genetically Modified Foods and Bioengineering. You will be hearing more about "neutraceuticals", or foods that provide a natural way to fight illness or disease. (Examples are oatmeal, and Benecol margerine and salad dressings).
Nutrition educators work diligently to provide accurate, research-based information to guide you in making wise choices. Be sure you rely on valid professionals for your information.
Food Safety continues to be an issue whether eating at home or at a restaurant.
Last year, the federal centers for disease control and prevention reported 76 million cases of foodborne illness. Among traceable outbreaks (keep in mind a lot of foodborne illness goes unreported or is not traceable), 77% resulted from improper handling in food service, and 20% at home. Food itself was found responsible in 3% of the cases. We may hear more about irradiation, which uses ionizing energy to kill bacteria and extend shelf life.
Supermarkets are even changing the way we shop. Now you can go into the "grocery store" and purchase a ready-cooked meal and get your salad and dessert without having to cook anything yourself. Many supermarket chains offer customers "on-line" shopping opportunities. You send your order via the internet, and either pick it up or have it delivered. I don't see home- cooking becoming obsolete, however. The skills of planning, shopping and preparing will still be needed in the future.
Our selection of food items seems to be endless. There is a global supply now which will continue to expand. There is absolutely no reason for you to fail to meet the first Dietary Guideline, "Eat a Variety of Foods".
On the downside, Americans are gaining too much weight (myself included). Over-weight is associated with several illnesses such as heart disease and certain cancers. Being overweight aggravates other diseases as well. So, even with such a wonderful supply of food, we still need to eat in moderation and stay physically active.
I plan to continue to bring to you the latest nutrition information and food preparation tips throughout the new year. Please feel free to call, write or e-mail me with your individual questions.
