Cantaloupe Recall

On March 23, the FDA issued a warning on cantaloupes. According to the AP article, cantaloupes from a Honduran manufacturer may be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. More than 50 people have become ill but thankfully, no deaths have been reported. This type of food scare is becoming increasingly common in the U.S. In 2006, it was the E. Coli outbreak tied to bagged spinach. Before that, a Hepatitis A outbreak associate with green onions from Mexico. Eating food grown closer to home from people you know in no way prevents harmful bacteria from entering our bodies. But for reasons that I can't explain in any scientifically credible way, I do think it helps... especially if you know intimate details about the farmer's production practices. Like...do the people who harvest the food have access to a clean bathroom and a sink with soap and running water? Proper hygiene from field to fork is key to prevent the spread of bacteria like Salmonella. Unfortunately, it snowed this past weekend so it looks like it will still be awhile before I am buying food grown nearby.

Caroline's Lunchbox Menu, March 25: Breakfast - pumpkin carrot muffin, pearsauce; Lunch - lentil croquettes, 100% whole grain bread, carrots; Snacks - cheddar cheese, whole grain crackers

Childcare Center Menu, March 25: Breakfast - pineapple, wheat croissants; Lunch - chicken nuggets, carrots, grapes, wheat bread; Snacks -cheese, crackers