Food & Farm News
» September 23, 2008 «
Olive oil production booms in California 
Tree acreage for olives that are used for oil continues to increase as consumers find more uses for the product. The California Olive Oil Council reports that rising demand is linked to producers who continue to market the product in different ways to large and small-scale retail outlets. A proposed new law could discourage some olive oil importers from bringing their product to California, though an association representing importers says most already follow the proposed standards.
Larger lamb chops on the research menu
Consumers may find larger lamb chops and improved wool products as a result of ongoing research at U.S. Department of Agriculture labs. Scientists are studying the genes of sheep to determine the relation to the animals' physical shapes. They're also seeking ways to reduce susceptibility to diseases. Already their work has yielded cheaper ways to detect diseases. Discoveries may allow breeders to increase lamb chop sizes through conventional breeding methods.
Folic acid benefits moms-to-be
Folic acid is what the Council for Responsible Nutrition is touting as they target women who may become or are pregnant. Research shows folic acid, a B vitamin, reduces a birth defect that affects the development of the fetal spinal cord and central nervous system. Folic acid is found in green leafy vegetables, chickpeas and lentils, and is also available in multivitamins.
Promotion asks people to tackle childhood hunger by dining out
Every night, children across the nation go to bed hungry. To help address the problem, restaurants throughout California are taking part this week (September 21-28) in the Great American Dine Out. Participating restaurants donate a portion of their proceeds to nonprofit groups dedicated to making sure children have access to nutritious foods, including the fresh fruits and vegetables grown on California's farms. To find a restaurant, visit www.strength.org.
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