Nutrition

An image of four food items: a salmon fillet, a glass of milk, spinach leaves, and slices of bread.

Navigating Nutrition Labels: Identifying Nutrients of Concern

— By Jen Spann, University of Maine Dietetic Intern and Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension Reading a nutrition label can seem overwhelming, so we’re here to help! Here are a few key points to keep in mind: Nutrition facts labels are based on a standard 2,000 calorie per day […]

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Oil being poured into a dish.

Navigating Nutrition Labels: The Truth About Dietary Fats

— Jen Spann, University of Maine Dietetic Intern and Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension Reading a nutrition label can seem overwhelming, so we’re here to help! Here are a few key points to keep in mind: Nutrition facts labels are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. All amounts listed […]

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Close up of orange carrots

Carrots 101: Selection, Storage, and Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor

— Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension Carrots have been a staple in diets for centuries. While the orange variety is most common, carrots come in various colors, including red, purple, yellow, black, and white. A fun fact about carrots is that they are a member of the parsley family. […]

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Cabbage

Get Creative with Cabbage

— Jilleon Farrell, Dietetic Intern, University of Maine, and Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension Cabbage is a part of the crucifers family along with broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, and more. Maine-grown cabbage is plentiful from June through December. There are four different types of cabbage […]

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Carrot fries on a plate.

Quick, Healthy Meals Using Seasonal Produce

— Jilleon Farrell, Dietetic Intern, University of Maine, and Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension October’s harvest is all about rich flavors and local ingredients, featuring an assortment of fruits, vegetables, and grains that all capture the essence of the season. Whether you’re a fan of stews, casseroles, or delicious […]

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College students getting food at the dining hall.

Dining Hall Decisions

— By Jilleon Farrell, Dietetic Intern, University of Maine and Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension In addition to being an opportunity for new adventures, adjusting to college life can be stressful, intimidating, and challenging. Dining halls promote an all-you-can-eat style which provides an abundance of choices for students to […]

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Lunch container with tomatoes and sandwich wraps.

The Ultimate Guide to Lunch Box Food Safety

— By Kayla Parsons, Doctoral Candidate, Registered Dietitian, University of Maine Cooperative Extension If you’re a student, teacher or taking care of a little learner, you’re about to transition back into full time school mode. This often comes with the responsibility of deciding what to pack for lunch. Almost as important as what’s being packed […]

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Assorted herbs

Using Fresh Herbs in Cooking

— By Kate Yerxa, MS, RD, Extension Professor University of Maine Cooperative Extension Adding flavors to meals with fresh herbs is a great way to cut down on added sugar, salt and fat. While the recommendation to use herbs in cooking seems straightforward, there are a few questions that are commonly asked about the best […]

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Green bean salad

Fresh from the Garden: How to Enjoy Green Beans

— By Kate Yerxa, Extension Educator, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Green and yellow snap beans are a common garden crop in Maine. While bush and pole beans are easy to grow for new home gardeners, it can be overwhelming if your crop is ready to pick at the same time. Pick your beans when […]

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Five hands on a table.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

— By Kayla Parsons, RDN, PhD Student, University of Maine Cooperative Extension May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Did you know that 1 in 20 adults in the United States are experiencing mental illness, but more than half of those individuals did not receive treatment? There is a need to advocate for an equitable mental […]

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