Sound Consumer archive
March 2013
Fermented & cultured foods: the surprising health benefits
by Cynthia Lair
Some call them bacteria or bugs but the nice name for this lively population is "flora." More than 500 different species make up the flora in our bodies, weighing in at between 2 and 5 pounds.
Get cultured
Probiotics are good bacteria found in fermented and cultured foods that find a home in our digestive system. These beneficial microorganisms assist with normal digestion and benefit our immune system, even warding off colds.
Recipes from the March 2013 issue
Fermented & flavorful
If you've shied away from sauerkraut, miso, kefir and other seemingly exotic (and probiotic-rich) foods in your cooking because you're not sure how to use them, these recipes offer a great place to start.
Letters to editor
PCC nutrition facts labels · Whole-milk dairy · Ethical chocolate · Arsenic in rice · Xanthan gum · Modern wheat · Ractopamine in pork · Rotenone
News bites
Dating by leftovers · Kale for good mood? · New "plastic island" discovered · HFCS consumption plummets · GE "golden rice" tested on kids? · Antibiotic resistance in China · Fructose tied to obesity · Hidden GE toxins? · Mexican hunger strike against GE corn · Missouri GE meat labeling bill · Eat early for weight loss?
Organic dairy farms benefit farmers and local economies
Greater government investment in organic milk would benefit consumers.
The organic dairy sector provides more economic opportunity and generates more jobs in rural communities than conventional dairies, according to a report released in November by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
Is nutritious delicious?
by Nick Rose, M.S.
When foods are described as "healthy," they often are perceived as the opposite of delicious. Researchers have found that if the exact same food is given to a taste panel with two different names, the panel almost always prefers the plate of "homemade cookies" over the plate of "whole-grain cookies."
Search PCC nutrition facts databases
Since launching our online searchable database of PCC deli dishes earlier this year, many shoppers have been busy using it to look up nutrition information about their favorites, from salads and soups to our hot bar offerings. Now, we're pleased to announce this information is available for PCC Bakery items, too.
What's new in store — March 2013
New-crop organic asparagus, and luscious organic ataulfo mangoes welcome spring in our produce departments this month. Also new: body care products from Acure Organics, Alaffia, and Moon Valley Organics. In our wine department, don't miss the Lost River Salish Sea White that's "pure Washington!"
Soil & Sea: reports from our producers
It's the International Year of Quinoa! Also: immigration reform, "funny" honey and the impacts of ocean acidification are a few things on the minds of farmers and fisherman.
PCC Board of Trustees report
Notice of annual membership meeting · 2013 election · Meet the board candidates · Board meeting report · Retreat · Global Ends