Author: emott

Close up of chocolate bars.

The Sweet Truth: Uncovering the Health Benefits of Chocolate

— By Kayla Parsons, PhD Student, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Chocolate is synonymous with Valentine’s Day, and quite frankly, can be enjoyed in moderation during the whole year. You may have taste preferences on your preferred treats, whether it’s peanut butter cups, dark chocolate covered strawberries or white chocolate truffles, but do you know […]

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Yogurt fruit parfait with granola, strawberries, blueberries, and yogurt in a clear glass on a table.

Mainely Dish: Yogurt Fruit Parfait

— By Alex Gayton, Assistant EFNEP Coordinator & Social Media Coordinator, Expanded Food Nutrition and Education Program (EFNEP), University of Maine Cooperative Extension Visit EFNEP’s recipe website for the Yogurt Fruit Parfait recipe and recipe video. A yogurt fruit parfait is a perfect low-effort, nutritious breakfast or snack when you just don’t have time for […]

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Collage of three photos: hands holding compost, a family looking at items in a grocery store, and a plate with the words “Meal Plan”.

5 Practical Tips to Reduce Food Waste

— By Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Food waste is a significant concern, with an estimated one-third of all food produced in the United States ending up in landfills. That’s 33% of the food produced! In the United States, food is plentiful, but many people lack financial resources and this […]

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Kale and white bean soup in a bowl.

Mainely Dish: Kale and White Bean Soup

— By Alex Gayton, Assistant EFNEP Coordinator & Social Media Coordinator, Expanded Food Nutrition and Education Program (EFNEP), University of Maine Cooperative Extension Visit EFNEP’s recipe website for the Kale and White Bean Soup recipe and recipe video. We all know that winter in Maine is the perfect time for soup season, and making your […]

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Roasted vegetables on a plate.

Mainely Dish: Roasted Vegetables

— By Kayla Parsons, RDN and PhD Student, University of Maine Cooperative Extension It’s hard to beat the aromatic smell of vegetables roasting, while you’re enjoying a cozy day inside during Maine’s cold winter. EFNEP’s Mainely Dish: Roasted Vegetables Recipe is an easy way to accomplish that sense of warmth, resulting in an appetizing side […]

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Snowshoeing in the snow

Ask EFNEP: Staying Active in the Winter

— By Mikaela Greenwald, EFNEP Community Education Assistant – York County, ME This blog entry is part of our “Ask EFNEP” blog posts, where members of UMaine Cooperative Extension’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) answer questions they are asked when delivering food and nutrition programs. This question was answered by Mikaela Greenwald. Mikaela […]

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Charcuterie board with meat, cheese, crackers, and fruit.

How to Build a Healthy Charcuterie Board for the Holidays

— By Kayla Parsons, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Ph.D. Student, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Heading to a holiday party, but not sure what to bring? Everyone loves a well-assembled charcuterie board (pronounced: shaar-koot-tr-ee). While charcuterie traditionally refers to the preparation of cured meats, the term is frequently used to describe snack trays and plates […]

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Food pantry staff member helps client.

7 Ways to Support Local Food Pantries

— Kate Yerxa, Extension Educator, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Food pantries and community organizations play a role in improving the food and nutrition security of Mainers. Donating to these organizations through individual and group efforts is a way to help make a positive impact in the areas where you live. Before you donate or […]

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Thanksgiving table with rolls, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.

Our Favorite Thanksgiving Side Dishes

— Spoonful Bloggers With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it can be stressful choosing what dishes to make for family and friends. Whether it’s a potluck with friends or a traditional family gathering, the Spoonful blog team is here to help with some of our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. Enjoy! Roasted Brussel Sprouts – Kayla […]

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