Sound Consumer archive
February 2011

Creating change through chocolate

The organic and fair labor/fair trade seals on chocolate offer customers a level of confidence that environmental stewardship and human rights are respected in the making of a product. We’re fortunate to have such systems in place that authenticate the integrity of our foods.

Call the White House

President Obama is the only person with authority to override a pending decision affecting organic integrity. The Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, has rejected from further consideration a complete ban of genetically engineered (GE) alfalfa.

New food safety bill: What will it mean?

by Emily May

Amid a flurry of activity in the waning hours of the “lame duck” legislative session, the long-awaited Food Safety Modernization Act cleared both houses of Congress before the holidays and was signed into law by President Obama on January 4.

USDA: organic and biotech must “coexist”?

by Goldie Caughlan, PCC Nutrition Education Manager

Monsanto, the world’s biggest producer of genetically engineered (GE) seed, reportedly has spent half a billion dollars in the last decade on key political campaign contributions and targeted lobbying. Its money has opened many doors.

Polenta at PCC

We have thick-grain polenta, one with a finer grind, and some that are already made and packaged, ready to eat. All are organic. So whether you have an hour, 10 minutes, or no time at all to cook, you’ll find this versatile food in a form that will fit your needs — breakfast through dessert!

Recipes from the February issue

Perfecting polenta

Polenta can be light and healthy, or luxurious and rich, and plays host to any topping you can dream up — from spicy chili to ratatouille. A swirl of butter and sharp cheese hits the spot, too.
Three-Cheese Polenta · Creamy Polenta · Rosemary Polenta Soufflé

What's new in store — February 2011

This month organic citrus still is in full swing at PCC — we've got honeygold grapefruit, kumquats and other fruit to add zest to your winter. Other must-try new items in our stores include Spinach dip and Roasted Veggie Mascarpone dip in our delis, Schooner EXACT beer growlers, Bella Terra whole-wheat pasta, and more!

Notes from the Cellar

Love for sale?

by Jeff Cox, Wine and Beer Merchandiser

February. It’s not a word that quite fills the sails of the soul. It doesn’t evoke flights of fancy or launch bold ships of metaphor, nor does it offer even a good hook upon which to hang a chorus or two on a seasonal riff. Not unless we can dream up something novel and brilliant to say about Valentines or Presidents.

Organic farmers are the new rock stars

by Kristin Vogel,
Communications & Education Associate

A cultural shift is underway in the world of farming, and not a moment too soon. Increasing numbers of young growers are gathering together to share skills, knowledge and resources in order to make it possible for new generations of farmers to overcome a huge range of obstacles.