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Study of eating raisins to improve oral health

Fruit and nut trees enjoy foggy weather

Cold, foggy mornings such as have been occurring in parts of the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys provide ideal conditions for fruit and nut trees as they accumulate chill hours. Farmers say the fog is better than just cold. However, the warm afternoons tend to undo some of the benefits. Forecasts for cooler high temperatures should help the trees stay dormant. Chill hours help the trees and vines set a good crop for next season.

Raisins may be a key to a healthier mouth

Although raisins are sticky they might benefit oral health, according to a study conducted at the College of Dentistry at the University of Illinois-Chicago. It shows raisins contain a variety of compounds that attack oral pathogens. These compounds fight cavity-causing bacteria as well as germs that lead to gingivitis in adults. All of the nation's commercial raisin production is in California.

Almond's nutritional profile helps Blue Diamond set sales record

Blue Diamond achieved record sales of $711 million this year. The cooperative's grower members were told the news at the 98th annual meeting of the organization. Global almond consumption has increased dramatically, in part due to the nut's health benefits. Farmers have produced a record harvest again this season. However, future production is dependent on enough water being available to nourish the crop. California almonds are the state's largest food export, valued at nearly $3 billion.

Carrots get a calcium boost

Research funded by the Agricultural Research Service has yielded carrots that contain more calcium. Inadequate dietary intake of calcium is a global concern as it is a key component for healthy bones. The scientists had 30 volunteers eat single meals containing regular or calcium-modified carrots for a two-week period. Those consuming the modified carrots had an increased calcium intake of 41 percent over those eating regular carrots.

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