" " "

Banana snack industry goes stale

Not so long ago, the Central Java town of Majenang was famous for being the home of sale pisang, a unique snack made with bananas, but recently the market changed and the local snack industry faded to a fraction of its former success. Majenang, one of 23 districts in Cilacap regency in the far west of the province - bordering with Banjar and Ciamis regencies in West Java - has about 30 small factories producing the snack. Before the 1998 economic crisis, there were around 100 such producers, leading Cilacap administration to come up with the idea of making the snack the icon of Majenang. But with the crisis, the plan hit snags and many cottage industries were forced out of business. More than a decade later, the situation has yet to improve. "Before the crisis I could sell 2 or 3 tons of fried banana sweets to Jakarta. But things are difficult now," Yayat, a 61-year-old sale pisang business owner, told The Jakarta Post in Majenang. Today, Yayat produces only about 200 kilograms of sale pisang a month, and 99 percent of this is sold in Majenang. The snacks are sold in 250-gram packages, each costing around Rp 25,000 (US$2). Another snack producer, Juremi, said that before the crisis she could send 2 tons of sale pisang to Jakarta, Bandung and Surabaya each month. "Now we only sell sale pisang for the local market," the 60-year-old said. Juremi said most of the snack producers were struggling to survive. "What's important is that business survives. If there are buyers in the city, that's enough. Sometimes we get an order from outside the city, but this is unreliable," she said. "Once, a distributor from outside the city wanted to place an order, but the price he offered was too low to cover our production costs. Rather than suffering losses, we preferred not to take it." Making sale pisang does not take long. Ripe bananas are cut into slices and dried in the sun. "If the sun is bright, the bananas will dry out in two days. But in a rainy season like this, it takes about four days," Juremi said. The dried bananas are then smeared with flour and deep-fried. After being drained, the banana chips are ready to be packaged and sold. The sale pisang business has supported many, including farmers and traders who sell raw bananas to cottage industries in Majenang, as well as banana snack makers such as Juremi and Yayat, and the vendors. Majenang district head, Heru Susedyo, said he was aware of the stagnant business situation. "Sale pisang was once so popular that the Cilacap administration planned to make it the icon of Majenang city, but the plan could not be realized because sales keep decreasing." http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/03/06/

Thursday 15 January 2009

Musa Acuminata Colla - The Banana

A banana as everyone knows, is a slender thick skinned edible fruit which varies in different sizes and colors. The word 'banan' is Arabic for finger. They are grown in Latin and South America, India, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Colombia, Honduras, Panama and Guatemala. India is by far the largest world producer of bananas, growing 16.5 million tonnes in 2002, followed by Brazil which produced 6.5 million tonnes of bananas in 2002. Over 96% of American households purchase bananas at least once each month. There are more than 500 varieties of banana in the world.

There are Bananas of different colors such as:

Green [good for strength and impotency especially in males],

Yellow [edible fruit bananas],

Red [rich in carotene],

Baby yellow bananas; also known as pisang susa [which are known for their sweetness] and are edible when they ripe completely as the starch in it is converted to sugars such as sucrose, fructose and glucose. Raw bananas [green and 20-30 cm long] are also used for cooking and are even fried. Children love to eat fried chips made out of Bananas. Banana flowers [Known as Bond in Vasai] are also used for cooking, especially in India. Also numerous desserts have been prepared using this fruit, which simply add to delicacies of all time. A smoothie made from bananas along with curd simply tastes fabulous. Besides that Rajles [wild form of Banana found in Vasai] is used by East Indian people as a coolant for insect bites and also in sweet dishes made from coconut milk and jaggery.

Banana plant has leaves of about 4 x 1 m which are used as biodegradable plates in south India, especially during wedding.

What are the medicinal uses of Bananas?

Bananas are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and dietary fiber. One banana has 76gm% of water, 10mg% of the vitamin C, 0.50gm% of the potassium, 20gm% of sugar and 1.2gm% of protein and 3gm%of the dietary fiber needed each day for good health. The vitamin C in bananas helps your body to heal and defend against infections. Vitamin C also is valuable in the absorption of iron, synthesis of connective tissue, and blood formation. High in iron, bananas can increase the production of hemoglobin in the blood and help in cases of anemia. Due to presence of fiber, bananas also ensure that the bowel functioning is normal and thus helps in clearing out constipation.

The good source of potassium from bananas is helpful for your body to maintain the fluid balance in blood and tissue cells as well as help in improving intellectual ability of an individual. Potassium is also an essential mineral for protein synthesis and the building of muscle because it stimulates nerve impulses for muscle contraction.

Research suggests that a diet high in potassium may reduce the risk of hypertension and stroke. Because bananas are sodium-free and very rich in potassium, they can be eaten as part of a diet to reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Bananas have no fat, cholesterol or sodium. According to research in 'The New England Journal of Medicine' eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%.

They also contain a rich supply of vitamin B6, providing 20% of the Recommended Daily Allowance of B6. Vitamin B6 is significant in the synthesis of antibodies in the immune system. It also helps in protein metabolism, red blood cell formation and functioning of the central nervous system.B vitamins help in relieving stress of the nervous system as they send oxygen supply to the brain.

Bananas are great for athletic and fitness activity because they replenish necessary carbohydrates, glycogen and body fluids burned during exercise and gives much strength to an individual. Bananas contain more digestible carbohydrates than any other fruit. The advantage is that the body burns off calories from carbohydrates more quickly and easily than calories from protein or fat.

They are used against intestinal disorders and because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is one of the most important fruit that can be eaten in over-chronic ulcer cases as it is an antacid which neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation of the stomach. They are also used in patients suffering from heart-burns.

BRUNO LOPES is an MSc-2 student of T.N.Medical College and B.Y.L.Nair Charitable Hospital [MUMBAI UNIVERSITY] and likes to do research on Herbs and fruits and study their medicinal properties. He has graduated in Microbiology and Biochemistry[co-curricular honors in microbiology] from ST.XAVIERS COLLEGE, Mumbai [MUMBAI UNIVERSITY]. Currently he is researching on his dissertation topic, 'Role of Sodium potassium ATPase,Glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin in Diabetes mellitus' as a part of MSc-2.

His aim in life is to do something for betterment of mankind which he describes by a simple adage, which is,''Knowledge is education for oneself but wisdom for the sake of others'' His interests are Microbiology, Biochemistry, Oncology, Nutrition, Botany, Immunology, Virology and many more. He has a vast knowledege on scientific names of different plants and microbes ofcouse as he had graduated in Microbiology and Biochemistry.

Visit Ten Historical Places of Cambodia

The Kingdom of Cambodia belongs to the Southeast Asian nations. Cambodia relies solely on its textile and garment production and industry as well as tourism to sustain the needs of the country. As for tourism, everybody wants to go visit Cambodia's historical places, and here are some of them.

1.) Angkor Archaeological Park

This is the location of the world-famous Khmer civilization, a civilization so modern during its time that it still awes its present-day visitors. Here, you can visit the Temple of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom as well as the Bayon Temple. The best way to view all that Angkor has to offer is to take one of their tours, since they are more comprehensive than by just touring it yourself.

2.) Bokor National Park

This national park is the site where an old and dilapidated French hill station is located. It is rich in history as a lot of Khmer lost their lives for the creation of this used-to-be magnificent building. But other than this, you can also see a myriad of floras and faunas in the national park.

3.) Kampong Cham

This is Cambodia's third biggest city and is also a popular tourist destination, although not as popular as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You can also see a lot of beautiful places here like the Nokor Wat as well as the Bamboo Bridge that connects Koh Paen to Mekong. This city is also rich in French influence.

4.) Kompong Luong

This floating town is a must-see if your destination is Cambodia. This is a floating village in Tonle Sap where you can experience Cambodian culture firsthand. It is a delight to any foreigner to see schools and houses and restaurants float over the lake of Tonle Sap.

5.) Phnom Penh

Recognized as the biggest city of Cambodia, it is also Cambodia's capital city. There is a lot you can do here like visiting the Sisowath Bay where you can enjoy its quasi-carnival ambiance. This is also where The Royal Palace is located as well as The National Museum.

6.) Banlung

Here in Banlung, you will definitely enjoy visiting Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake where you can take picnics as well as swim in the lake. Virachey National Park is also located here, or you can visit the Wat Rahtanharahm where you can find the famous reclining Buddha. There are also a lot of wonderful waterfalls that you can visit here like Cha Ong and Kan Chang.

7.) Battambang

These are the must-go-to places in Battambang. You have to visit Wat Banan or what they call small Angkor Wat, and you have to go to Wat Baydamram or the bat temple where you can see fruit bats live in hundreds. Wat Ek Phnom is also a must-see place in this area.

8.) Resort town of Kep

This is a favorite seaside destination in Cambodia. Here, get to enjoy the Cambodian sun as you dine in platforms and eat fresh seafoods, and this is a great place where you can just relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. Visiting the Rabbit Island is also a must as you will definitely enjoy its white sand beaches.

9.) Koh Kong

Koh Kong is more for the nature lover as you will definitely enjoy majestic views of mountains and waterfalls as well as jungles. You can also visit their local zoo and the casino here if you want a more modern touch. Boat tours are popular here as you visit its islands and mangroves.

10.) Siem Reap

It is another favorite tourist spot in Cambodia. What you can see here is the Landmine Museum, which is dedicated to teaching and educating both the locals and the visitors about the hazards of land mines. You can also find a floating village here called the Kampong Phluck.

Bananas and Their Many Uses

• In Eastern Africa you can buy banana beer. This beer is brewed from bananas.

• The word ‘banan’ is Arabic for finger.

• There are more than 500 varieties of banana in the world.

• If you rub a mosquito bite with the inside of a banana skin, it reduces swelling and irritation.

• According to “The New England Journal of Medicine” eating bananas as part of a regular diet can help reduce the risk of death by stroke by as much as 40%.

• Bananas can help sufferers of Seasonal Affective Disorder because they contain the natural mood enhancer, tryptophan.

• Many cultures see bananas as a “cooling” fruit that can lower emotional and physical temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their babies are born with a cool temperature.

Nutrition:

Bananas are low in calories, fat, sodium, and soluble fiber, which is the type of fiber that can help lower cholesterol. Bananas also contain 452 milligrams of potassium, 33 milligrams of magnesium, and one-third of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin B6.

Banana Curried Chicken

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 onions-chopped

• 50 milliliters cooking oil

• ¼ cup cake flour

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 1 cup raisins

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 pounds cooked, boned chicken—(cooked with seasoning)

• 5 sliced bananas

• 2 grated apples

• 2 tablespoons grated lemon rind

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 and ½ tablespoons curry powder

• 1 bay leaf

• 4 peppercorns

• 1 cup cream

Fry onions in oil until light brown. Add flour and mix well. Add chicken stock gradually while stirring. Add the rest of the ingredients, except cream, cover saucepan and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Mix in cream just before serving. Serve on a bed of rice. Decorate with pineapples if preferred.

Banana Sunset

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 very ripe bananas

• 2 tablespoons rum

• 2 tablespoons honey

• ½ pound butter

• 3 ounces raisins

• 2 ounces cherries

• 4 eggs

• ½ cup sugar

• ½ pound flour

• ¾ pint milk

• ½ tablespoon lime juice

• 1 ounce mixed nuts

• ½ teaspoon vanilla

• ½ cup grated coconut

Cream bananas and sugar, add eggs beaten well. Add milk, vanilla, lime juice, and flour. Mix well. Add raisins, cherries, and nuts, blend slightly. Turn out mixture in 9 inch baking dish. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Allow to cool. Cover top with whipped cream and coconut. Decorate with six carambola slices.

Banana Fruit: Plantain Health Benefits

Banana (or Plantain) health food: The banana is of great nutritional value. It has a rare combination of energy value, tissue-building elements, protien, vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of calories being richer in solids and lower in water content than any other fresh fruit.

Banana for energy
A large banana supplies more than 100 calories. It contains a large amount of easily assimable sugar, making it a good source of quick energy and an excellent means of recovery from fatigue. The use of bananas has been found beneficial in the treatments of several disorders such as intestinal disorders, constipation, arthritis, gout, anaemia, allergies, kidney stones, tuberculosis and urinary disorders.

Banana and longevity
Folk physicians of ancient Persia and India regarded this golden fruit as natures secret of perpetual youth. Even today, banana is known for promoting healthy digestion and helping create a feeking of youthfulness. It helps promote the retention of calcium, phosphorous and nitrogen which then work to build sound and regenerated tissues, which is an aid to youthful metabolism.

Tuesday 13 January 2009

Better Ways to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh

We all have the best intentions - we make a large dinner and then put the leftovers in the refrigerator to be eaten later. The main problem is that the next day, the leftovers are a little stale and not so fresh, so we toss them out because no one wants to eat stale food. There has to be a better way to keep your leftover foods fresh - and there is. The main ingredient in keeping your leftovers fresh is fridge storage solutions.

There are many storage solutions for your leftovers. These range from the typical plastic tubs to more complex storage items which allow food to air.

Some fruits do not need to be kept in the fridge and fare better if they are stored on the counter. To keep your bananas fresh, look at purchasing a banana hook. A banana hook hangs the bananas up off the counter, preventing age spots and bruises - mimicking the natural habitat of bananas - hanging from a tree. A fruit basket that is open aired (usually made of metal wires) is a great idea for your other fruits and produce. You can put apples, grapes, oranges and more in an open air fruit basket to keep your fruit fresher, longer.

For produce that needs to stay in the refrigerator, look for a produce keeper with a water reservoir and air vents. These features control the moisture that your produce is exposed to and prevents wilting and browning. A produce keeper can keep your produce items fresh for weeks longer.

Another option for produce and left over foods is a vacuum container. With the proper seal, your food can stay fresh much longer than if it is not sealed. Vacuum containers are dishwasher and microwave safe, and can be used in the refrigerator or freezer. Make sure to purchase a clear container so that you can easily see the foods you have stored.

You can even keep your pies as fresh as they were out of the oven with a pie keeper. A pie keeper helps your pies stay fresh and intact, without crushing them during transport or stacking.

Keep your cereals and snacks fresh with a snack dispenser unit. These dispensers are air tight to provide maximum freshness for all your cereals and snacks.

If you have left over bread, be sure to keep it fresh with a bread container. A bread container keeps your loaf of bread from getting moldy. Bread typically becomes moldy when it is exposed to air. A bread keeper is adjustable to hold any size of bread loaf without crushing it.

In order to keep your left over foods fresh as long as possible, be sure that you are storing them appropriately. It is best to store each type of food individually so that you do not have any cross contamination, or soggy foods. What one food needs for moisture, another may not, and therefore you may end up with foods that have too much moisture. Another important step to keeping left over foods fresh is to package them into the fridge as soon as possible after you have completed your meal. The sooner you can get them into refrigeration, the better. This lessens the amount of degradation that your foods may have by sitting out in the warmer, open air of your home.

Freezer solutions for left over foods are also an option - freezing leftovers into containers is a tradition that has been passed down through the generations. "Waste not, want not", was the motto of the 30s, and these practices of everything having a use should not be lost today. If you are positive that no one is going to want to eat more turkey again this week, why not store it in the freezer in a freezer safe, air-tight container? That way, in a week or two when you are once again in the mood to eat turkey and you are looking for a quick meal idea, you can pull the left over foods out of the freezer. This allows you to serve them as fresh as they were on the day they were cooked.

Left over foods do not have to be stale, they can be foods that both you and your family enjoy eating as much as you did the day you cooked them. With the proper storage solutions for the refrigerator and freezer, you can store your leftovers and make use of them instead of throwing them away in the garbage.

You too can be a 'waste not, want not' family by utilizing your left over foods instead of throwing them away. Throwing food away is throwing money away. Many stores have storage solutions for your leftovers. The containers that you purchase can be used time and time again to save your food and save you money!

7 Healthy Eating Snacks For Your Low Calorie Diet Plan

Any healthy eating plan is not complete without some great healthy snacks included. Everyone wants a snack now and then, but the key is to make those snacks healthy and nutritious as well as delicious. In addition to that they need to be enjoyed without a feeling of guilt.

The following are 7 healthy eating snacks:

> A piece of fresh fruit, like an apple, orange or banana always makes a great snack. Keep a bowl of fruit on your kitchen counter or on the coffee table for easy access and it will also encourage to whole family to eat healthier.

> 2 rice cakes topped with low fat cottage cheese and pineapple.

> 2 small or 1 standard warmed pita bread filled with a mixture of salad leaves, cucumber, thinly sliced tomatoes, salad onions and a sprinkling of pepper. Tasty, healthy and very filling.

> Some of the tastiest and easiest fresh vegetable snacks include baby carrots or carrot slices, bite size vegetables such as broccoli florets, radishes and green peppers, fresh vegetable juice and fresh vegetable salads.

> Mix ½ cup smoked salmon trimmings with 1-2 tablespoons cream cheese or yogurt. Add 1 tsp finely chopped capers if desired, spread on wholegrain bread.

> Try using bagels, pita bread or tortilla shells with a tasty filling like chopped chicken mixed in low fat yoghurt with salad leaves and thinly sliced tomatoes and cucumber.

> A small handful of unsalted nuts and a small handful of raisins mixed together.

Replacing all those unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives is one of the best ways to keep snack cravings from sidetracking your healthy eating goals.

Some Quit Smoking Tips

One of the hardest things any of us have ever had to do, is overcoming an addiction. When you are addicted to anything you feel almost helpless at even the thought of quitting your habit. There is however help out there, than can definitely help you overcome the addiction, and kick the habit. I am referring to cigarettes, but this can be any addiction.

One great thing to do is get in a group of people that are all attempting to achieve the same goal. For example we have narcotics anonymous or alcoholics anonymous. In our case, I don't know of any actual groups that get together to assist us with quitting smoking, but you can always create your own. One thing I do not recommend is relying on pills, patches, injections and things like that. They are very costly, and you may not be able to quit by using those products.

Another quit smoking tip is to start a hobby, i.e. scrap booking, or photography. Hobbies make a great alternative to smoking, when you get a craving just take a picture, or scrap book a page or two. Another great "hobby" is exercise, not only is it a great hobby, but it will also benefit your health as well. A lot of us tend to eat more when we are quitting this habit, so the exercise will counter act that as well.

Quitting smoking doesn't have to be this awful time in your life, where you seem to be grumpy, agitated and "testy" all the time. If you are willing to accept help, then it is there. Another great quit smoking tip is too eat healthy snacks. When you get a craving for a cigarette grab a banana, or chex mix, something to that effect.

You can overcome this addiction without spending the hundreds or thousands of dollars some places want you to spend to kick the habit. Just read up on it, check out some other articles, and research the side effects smoking has on your body, and how quickly your body starts repairing itself after you quit smoking. In fact, your heart rate drops about twenty minutes after your last cigarette. About half a day later, the carbon monoxide level in your blood would return to normal. Your sense of smell returns to normal within 3 months, and your blood pressure will start to return to normal.

These are only a few of the benefits of quitting smoking. Please keep in mind that this will not be easy, and you may fail a time or two, but the important thing to do is to keep it up, keep coming back and trying again. Once you have a game plan down you will definitely be able to quit. Thanks for reading and good luck.

4 Secret Tips For Losing Weight

The best way to lose weight can sometimes seem like one of life's greatest mysteries. Sometimes it actually is very puzzling. It seems that there are a lot of factors working against you. Fast food is so convenient. Healthy food costs so much more. The odds are not always in your favor. Hopefully the following little known tips to losing weight can help tilt the odds back in your favor.

The first thing to remember is to always eat non processed food. The more you steer towards natural food and away from processed food the better off you are going to be. Processed food is food that has been altered in some form or another. The more altered it is the worse it is for you. A general rule of thumb in identifying processed food is to just realize that if it cannot be found in nature in the form that it is in on your plate, then it has been processed. For example you can go out in the jungle and find a banana in pretty much the same form on a tree as you see them in the store. Now I seriously doubt you can go anywhere and find a Twinkie snack cake on a tree or plant anywhere in the world. There is just no such thing. Something like a Twinkie snack cake is a heavily processed food and really bad for your health and goal of losing weight. Stick to natural unprocessed food and you are wee loin your way to losing weight.

The second tip is to not eat any carbs after 6pm when trying to lose weight. Now do not misunderstand and think that I am saying carbs are bad. Good complex carbohydrates like whole grains can be a great source of energy. But when trying to lose weight you have to manage the usage of that energy source. Later in the day you do not need as much of that fuel and it can turn into excess very easily.

The third tip is to utilize weight training to add muscle to your frame. A lot of people misunderstand the role of muscle in weight loss. Muscles always burn energy. The more muscle mass you have on your body the more calories you will naturally burn. This can greatly aid in burning fat. Women should not be afraid of adding some muscle mass. You are not going to blow up like a muscle bound balloon overnight. Do not be scared of adding a small amount of muscle mass.

The fourth tip for losing weight is to make sure to always eat several small meals throughout the day instead of one or a few large meals. 5 or 6 small meals will allow your body to efficiently burn the fuel and not have an excess to turn into fat. Think about your body like a furnace. Which would be better for a furnace? Is it better to throw a huge amount of coal on the furnace at one time? Or is it better to add small amounts of coal to the fire throughout the day? Obviously you will benefit more from the small spread out amounts.

Keep these tips in mind and before you know it you will be a fat burning machine.

Thursday 1 January 2009

how to make banana bread

When cooking gourmet coffee, it is important to combine several factors that will make your cup of coffee a dreamy blend of flavor. Gurme coffee and of itself beautiful, but even better when made a certain way.

Before starting, be sure to select only the best gourmet coffee beans. Look for your favorite coffee or marks sample of several new types of coffee. If you visit the online gourmet coffee retailers, you can try many types of coffee beans imported from places in the world, South America, Central America, Africa, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and northern Scotland. You can also save money by finding an online store that offers high quality discount coffee beans. Determine how you coffee - whether you want ground or whole bean coffee selections. Many retailers allow you to order gourmet coffee two ways.

Still entitled Method of Water

The type of water you use to cook gourmet coffee can make all the difference in their flavor. Tap water, which is a strong, unpleasant smell or taste may adversely affect coffee flavor. Remember that your taste buds will be more sensitive when drinking a hot drink like coffee, so you'll be able to detect any unpleasant kind, caused by water. Refusal of bottled water instead, but to avoid distilled water as it does not have an adequate level of dissolved minerals that are necessary to give fresh coffee taste.

Even with the right quality of water, be sure to appreciate the coffee / water ratio in an appropriate manner. For optimal results, use a tablespoon ground two hours coffee six hours ounces water (or 3 / 4 cup water). This ratio produces a strong, rich gourmet coffee while using only one spoonful will produce weak coffee. Another way to reduce the power of coffee is a dilution of coffee with a little water after it was produced.

Order of fresh coffee beans

Whether gourmet coffee ordering online or purchase in a store nearby, make sure the coffee is fresh roasted. Absolutely the best time for the production of coffee is within 12 to 24 hours of being roasted. Some Internet coffee roasters will ship your coffee beans the same day are baked beans, giving you the ultimate freshness. If you plan to grind your own beans, be sure to wait until just before you plan to brew coffee. Freshness of coffee beans will start to decline after coffee beans were ground.

Gurme grind your own coffee beans

How to grind coffee beans will also make a difference in coffee processing. It is important to know what type of grinding, you'll need, whether fine or coarser grind. Fine grind works best with drip method of brewing a coarse grind works well if you use a French press. If you want a fine grind, then a common inexpensive blade grinder would be enough. In the French press brewing, use a burr grinder.

Gurme coffee also best when guests produced by clean technique. Coffee makers can build minerals, fats and balances over time. They will dissolve coffee flavor and power and hinder how well the equipment functions. Look brushes to clean and safe solutions for your coffee maker and clean it often if you cook often.

When shopping online gourmet coffee, do not forget to try all the roaster has to offer. There are many flavored coffees today, including blends chocolate, hazelnut, banana nut fudge, pecan, almond raspberry, cinnamon, vanilla, biscuits and cream, creme brulee, English caramel, ginger bread, English toffee, etc. You can also try Some espresso blends such as Italian espresso, Italian espresso, and Vienna roast blend. Go online today to find coffee, gourmet who excites your taste buds. You will never return to ulterior coffee you have tasted the best!

Read It Before You Eat It

Read before you eat it!

Curious George and new food label

Curious George has always curious about food! He has a lot to say boys and girls - and their families - for new food label.

Read some labels with George. I have fun as they learn together.

Curious George does not monkey around with food!

Curious George always looks before eating breakfast, lunch or tasty treats

Before we get to the table, he checks on food label ...

The food label information!

Curious George is a smart monkey! Tags help him learn about food he eats. Even his favorite foods whose labels. Your favorites do too.

From milk to marshmallows, labels for nutrients, say all kinds of foods. Curious George wants to know about nutrients you see on food labels.

See label for George favorite treat - Banana Munchie Crunchies. Find nutrients:

-------------------------------------------------- ---------

Banana Munchie Crunchies Nutrition Facts Serving size 1 cup (60 grams) Servings of container 2 amount of calories, serving 210 calories from fat 25

% Daily Value * 5% Total Fat 3 g saturated Fat 1 g 3% cholesterol 0mg 0% sodium 270mg 11% Total 42 grams carbohydrates 15 percent Diets Fiber 6 g 24% Sugars 15 g protein 4g

Vitamin A 30% Vitamin C 2% calcium 2% Iron 30%

* Percentage daily values are based on 2000 calories diet.

-------------------------------------------------- ---------

Broadening the nutrients you see below. Like George, you know how nutrients help you grow strong and healthy.

TROYHADRACEB gives you the energy to learn and play. This comes from the nutrient foods such as bread. Energy has a different name, calories.

I also provide calories. George gets most of its calories from carbohydrates and less from fats.

ROTENIP builds muscles and helps to grow.

NATMIVI keep skin healthy and shiny hair. Some help heal cuts and help you see in the dark, too.

CLAMUIC helps grow strong bones and teeth.

ORIN is an important part of your blood.

MISOUD helps liquids such as sweating in your body.

REBIF helps you digest food.

To stay healthy Curious George needs the right mix of these nutrients from food during the day. You do!

That is why George checks out food labels. Then he chooses food for breakfast, lunch and his favorite concerns.

Like Curious George, read it before you eat.

George says the package sides and back to find food nutrition facts.

He sees serving size, then checks nutrients inside ... This food label info!

Food labels give facts about George servings, calories and nutrients in foods. All nutritional facts are only one service.

Be like Curious George. Step by step, read the food label Banana Munchie Crunchies! Ask someone to help. He or she will learn to label you.

best banana bread recipe

Do not plan dinner during this holiday season? I have a little dinner menus to try - all guaranteed to be ready in 30-minute suite! This is my favorite time of year because I love to have fun, but do not have much time to prep (sound familiar?), So I picked up a few shortcuts along the way. I really can be a holiday dinner in 30 minutes! To prepare ...

You'll find that using several cooking methods, mix and match to dinner on the table quickly. You can Deputy your favorite recipes, made only when you have more time.

Poultry night:

Turkey breast with cranberry glaze (crock may be of dry onion soup mix and cranberry sauce)

Baked potatoes (parboiled, then baked)

Red pepper and broccoli medley

Warm rolls, butter

Fruit Cake with Ambrosia (purchased fruit cake and jarred citrus fruit with maraschino cherries and shredded coconut)

Chicken breast cancer sheet (boneless, skinless chicken breasts rolled around crab filling)

Pasta with fresh vegetables

Crabapple salad with Pink Mayo (jarred crabapples)

Banana napoleons (puff pastry and instant pudding mix)

Beef, lamb, Pork night:

Garlic and Rosemary Rubbed Prime Rib (crock can be boneless roast rib eye)

Mashed potatoes (instant or frozen shipping masked potatoes)

Brussels sprouts

Waldorf salad (apples, grapes, celery and walnuts with mustard sauce)

Rolls, butter

Cherries Jubilee (cherries preserved in syrup, bought ice cream)

Bob herbs Roasted Rack of lamb (pan seared and roasted Frenched rack of lamb)

New Potatoes

Asparagus

Harvard beet salad (jarred Harvard beet canned Mandarin oranges, orange juice)

3-layer Mentha Chocolate Cake (purchased frozen cake)

Timbales meat loaf with mushroom sauce (mini meat loaves with gabki sauce)

Baked potato (microwaved then baked)

Tomato / corn / Avocado salad (tomatoes, cherries, canned corn, sliced avocado in lime dressing)

Rolls, butter

Almond Cherry Crisp (canned cherry pie filling, almond whole-grain cereal and ice cream)

Seafood dinner:

Lobster Newburg (frozen lobster tails in cream sauce)

Pastry shells (puff pastry shells)

English Peas with Red Bell Pepper (frozen peas)

Winter fruit salad (bagged green salad, canned pears, dried cranberries, the chopped nuts sauce)

Coconut macaroon and strawberry kisses (meringue cookies with mini zalatsi)

Vegetarian Dinner:

French onion soup (chopped onions, vegetable composition, burgundy and soup with toasted bread and cheese cylinder)

Winter mixed green salad (bagged green salad, seasoned pecans, canned Mandarin orange sections, cranberry sauce, orange)

French bread, butter

Cheesecake fill pears and fresh raspberries (poached pears, canned, instant pudding mix)

I like Easy Elegance appetizer course for home, start a great meal: Courtney brie with mango, smoked salmon with dill dip, grapes and green vegetable dishes that will go well with dill dip, water biscuits, gourmet olives.

We sincerely hope to enjoy your holiday meal planning and preparation

banana nut bread recipes

This healthy diet plan is fully balanced and helps you lose up to 12 kg for the first 30 days without stress or injury to health. You can use this diet for as long as you like. Daily calorie content ranges from 1000 to 1400 kcal. It also recommends adding 30 minutes of exercise each day to wither quickly. During this diet should consume - 2 liters of liquids a day. For example: green tea, non-carbonated mineral water or natural juices.

Basic rules: Turn off all products not listed in your daily menu. Mix salad with olive oil, not mayonnaise. Use a little salt is possible (will be better not to use it at all for the first two weeks). It is not recommended to change the menu.

Monday. Fish day. Porridge (oats, buckwheat with low fat milk) - 150 g curd 0 - 4.5 percent of fat - 250 g Soup (made from vegetables) - 250 g black bread - 40 grams Boiled brown rice - 150 grams Boiled salmon - 150 g salad of tomatoes, cucumbers and green - 300 grams olive oil - 10 g fruit - 200 g

Tuesday. Meat day. Oatmeal - 150 g curd dessert, 4.5% fat - vegetable soup 250 grams - 250 grams vegetable ragout - 200 g boiled beef - 200 grams vegetable salad - 300 grams olive oil - 10 g fruit - 200 g

Wednesday. Egg-milk day. Oatmeal - 100 g curd, 4.5% fat Egg-250 grams - 100 grams salad of cucumbers and white cabbage - 300 grams olive oil - 10 grams Cheesecakes - 250 g low-fat sour cream - 250 g fruit - 200 g

Thursday. Fish day. Oatmeal - 200 g organic low-fat yogurt - 200 g vegetable soup - 250 g black bread - 40 grams Potatoes - 200 grams Boiled salmon - 150 g vegetable salad - 300 g bananas - 100 g

Friday. Fruit day. Bananas - 200 grams of dried apricots - 100 g raisins or grapes - Dates 100 grams - 100 grams oranges - Apples 100 grams - 100 grams of low-fat organic yogurt - 250 g

Saturday. Chicken day. Oatmeal - 150 g curd dessert - Egg 100 grams - 50 grams bananas - 100 g vegetable soup - 250 g black bread - 40 grams fresh vegetable salad - Macaroni 300 grams - 200 grams Boiled chicken without skin - 100 grams Natural peach juice - 200 g

Sunday. Body checking the weak-willed. It is possible to eat anything but try not to overeat. If you use this diet plan longer than one month it will become a habit to eat right all the time.

With this kind of diet plans lose weight slowly but will get back remains good health, hunger and physical weakness were absent.

easy banana bread

Want to know what happens to you and your bum, while you grow?

Check your progress in this week week of pregnancy guide ...

Weeks 1 / 4

You: Blissfully knows what will happen, you have time. Midway through your cycle, you release an egg and it begins its journey down the fallopian tube.
Your boom: Egg meets sperm, egg fertilization happens, and boom! Sex of your baby is already determined. In fertilize an egg made to the womb, its cells dividing all the time. Once the implants are ozove in the wall of the uterus you, you go - you're pregnant!
Hot Tip: If you have not already, start taking a daily vitamin and mineral supplement pregnancy with folic acid - has a choice of marks of all good chemists.

Weeks 5 / 8

You: Around now likely to piss on a stick and received a shock in my life! Whether you were for centuries trying to pregnancy or a total surprise, suddenly is real and which can be much to take in. You may feel very sick right now also because all these hormones will be crazy, so try to take it easy.
Your boom: In Week 8, your baby will be the amount of grapes as buds appear, indicating the beginning of arms, fingers, feet and your toes.
Top Tip: Contact your community midwife (ask your GP surgery) and seminal book in its first meeting.

Weeks 9 / 12

You: You may be trying to keep the pregnancy secret until they hit 12-week mark. It can be really difficult to maintain such great news is secret, but if that's your decision enjoy the excitement and this special time with your partner.
Your bump: Your baby bones are forming, her facial features will appear and it grows very quickly. Up to 12 weeks, all his major organs and structures will be fully formed, and it is about the size of a large strawberries now!
Top Tip: feeling tired? Switch from white, refined foods to wholewheat bread and pasta and brown rice, as they help to balance blood sugar levels, which should help to relieve your fatigue.

Week 13-16

You: It is time to bask in the excitement of others when they say that I expected (and indeed disease should fall). Your heart is difficult to work extra pump blood round your body and you can feel breathless. But many women find the second trimester at least.
Your bump: Your baby will practice inhaling and exhaling and using her facial muscles. It is covered with fine hair called lanugo.
Top Tip: Studies show that baby can react to what they heard about the 16th week. Try playing your favorite songs.

Week 17-21

You: Your fetal anomaly scan will check your babies development and you can understand what sex is, if you choose to. The skin can be changed at that time, so if that is normally dry becomes oily, and vice versa.
Your boom: the legs are becoming more and you can feel those tiny fluttering portend for the first time - a magical moment, which is often mistaken for the wind! It can suck, swallow and blink and your heart gets stronger growth starts to slow. It is in the size of a large banana.
Hot Tip: Your appetite may increase, but do not need extra calories until the third trimester.

Week 22-26

You: Your breasts may begin to leak colostrum - your first baby food. This is quite normal, so do not worry. You may find that your hair is especially thick and glossy - bonus time!
Your boom: By the end of this month, your baby will be approximately 23 centimeters long and perfectly formed (if a bit skinny). In lanugo thickens and darkens his lungs develop and nostrils begin to open.
Top Tip: Snack on bananas, most potassium intake - leg cramps are common and can be caused by lack of potassium.

Week 27-30

You: You may notice that your boom tightens around now - these are Braxton Hicks contractions that you tone the uterus to work. As your constantly expanding uterus presses against the stomach, you may experience heartburn, so eat little but often sleeps propped with pillows will help.
Your bump his eyes are open and she could suck her thumb. She has eyebrows, eyelashes and is sensitive to light, sound and smell.
Top Tip: Finding it hard to sleep with the growing boom? Investing in pregnancy wedge pillow.

Week 31-34

You: Your uterus is about 500 times bigger than its size before pregnancy! Braxton Hicks contractions strengthen and just stop your breath. If you suddenly developed severe headache and feel very sick, call your midwife. You are exposed to the risk of pre-eclampsia now, so be sure to attend all antenatal appointments.
Your boom: Fat deposits under the skin hides the blood vessels that are visible now. Loose skin on his face filled, so no more wrinkles! Her nails are at the end of your fingers and grow so that they have cut soon after birth.
Top Tip: As your baby bones continue to draw, make sure gets a lot of calcium.

Week 35-38

You: Do you have written your birth plan? If not, do so now! But remember, things often do not go to plan, so although it is great to Will type of birth you want, do not be too disappointed if it does not happen the way you want it.
Your bump: Your baby will start moving around now pelvis and is almost ready to go. She gets a good supply of antibodies from you through the placenta, and most of lanugo has disappeared. But the hair of his head can be up to 5 cm long.
Top Tip: Pack your hospital bag. Include toiletries, diapers, clothes for you and baby, maternity and breast pads and nursing bra. Even if you plan to be born at home, this is a good idea to have these things prepared in case you need to transfer.

Week 39-42

You: On your marks ... is determined ... procreate! Many babies are overdue by two weeks. However, I will go to work every day now. Signs to look out for are "Show" (a bloody, gel-like substance in knickers), water breaking or contractions that increase in strength and frequency.
Your boom: Position your baby lying at the moment is important because it will probably remain so right up to birth because the space is too spiffy for somersaulting! If she is born, may be advised to consider a Caesarian operation.
Top Tip: Try to relax and rest as possible in the days leading up to birth - you'll need power!