Sustainability is a top priority for consumers worldwide, and that includes making ethical, socially just purchases whenever possible. Organizations like the Rainforest Alliance conduct rigorous inspections and generate reams of important data to help sustainably-minded consumers make confident decisions. You’ve probably seen the Rainforest Alliance Certified logo on coffee, tea,
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The History of Cherries in Northern Michigan
Why Traverse City Became the Cherry Capital of the World Few fruits are as closely tied to Northern Michigan as the cherry. Every summer, visitors travel from across the country to experience cherry season, explore local u-pick orchards, and celebrate
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Old Town Playhouse’s Summer Day Camps Inspire Creativity
Summer is a joy in Traverse City, though the months-long break puts not insignificant strain on many parents who depend on childcare. Several area non-profit organizations meet that need with a diverse offering of summer camps; Traverse City’s Old Town Playhouse certainly
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The Best Plant-based Proteins to Add to Your Diet
Protein from any source is a critical part of a well-balanced, nourishing diet. While most of our protein has traditionally been from animals, plant-based proteins have become increasingly popular alongside vegetarian and vegan diets. Even if you still consume
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Dietary Fiber: Sources, Supplements, and Daily Intake
Fiber is one of the most under-appreciated dietary considerations for most Americans. The majority of US adults don’t consume enough dietary fiber, contributing to suboptimal digestive health and other conditions. Explore good sources of fiber to add to your diet,
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A Guide to Different Types of Salmon for the Home Chef
Salmon is an absolute treat to prepare and a nutritious, protein-packed alternative to beef that households love. As more shoppers look to add omega-3, fish oils, and alternative protein sources to their diets, it’s important to know the differences between
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Gluten-Free Food 101: From Certification to Popularity
Gluten-free foods have proliferated over the past decade, offering shoppers greater selection and ready access to certified, safe products with a low risk of cross-contamination. While an intentional choice for many, gluten-free certification is an important process that protects against
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How Fair Trade Certified Products Make a Difference
Consumers do care how and where the products they buy were created or sourced. They are largely dependent on third-party certification programs to assess whether their coffee, chocolate, or other purchases are sourced responsibly, which is why fair trade certification is a vital part of
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Organic Food Certifications: What to Know
Today’s food labels carry many unregulated, undefined marketing terms that mean little. Terms like “natural,” “clean”, and “healthy” may sound promising, but lack any certification or meaning. USDA organic is the only government labeling standard that verifies agricultural products are actually organic. Find out why
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A Guide to Ultra-processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods are a pervasive component of today’s shopping experience. These highly processed foods own shelf space in most aisles of a conventional grocery store, despite posing adverse health risks for most consumers. Third-party organizations and governmental agencies like the US Food and Drug Administration are actively
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