News for Now Update: Week of October 31, 2021

Harmful Phthalates Found in Fast Food
Would you like ketchup or phthalates with those fries? A new study revealed that trace amounts of phthalates, a harmful chemical found in plastics, have also been found in as much as 80% of food items from several fast-food restaurants. Phthalates have already been banned from toys, and “are linked to health problems, including disruption to the endocrine system, and fertility and reproductive problems, as well as increased risk for learning, attention and behavioral disorders in children.” Read more in the Washington Post.

The Return of Traditional Appalachian Foods
Appalachian food traditions are being resurrected, thanks to culinary historians and local chefs who are encouraging younger generations to embrace traditional foods and recipes of their ancestors. In this article from Modern Farmer, Abby Lee Hood uncovers the rich history of Appalachian fungi foraging, hunting of wild game and other culinary practices that make food in this region so unique.

U.S. Healthy Food Protocols Could Reduce COVID-19 Rates—So Where Are They?
Countries around the globe are instituting healthy food protocols based on evidence that diet-related illnesses (including obesity, hypertension and diabetes) contribute to higher rates of COVID-related illness and death. While these countries are working to improve the health of their populations, the U.S. is mum in comparison. In this important Politico exposé, Dan Glickman, former Ag Secretary for the Clinton Administration, laments about prevention in this country, “It’s a gigantic gap in the discussion about how health care relates to Covid and how it relates to the prevention of disease.” Read the article in Politico.

Wonder What Indigenous Food Tasted Like? Find Out!
Visitors of the new First Americans Museum in Oklahoma can now also have a taste of the indigenous diet of the 39 diverse cultures the Museum celebrates. Loretta Barrett Oden, owner and chef of 39 Restaurant and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, researched the diet and preparation methods of these 39 First American Nations before they were forcibly moved to Oklahoma. The menu is comprised of traditional dishes that highlight the culinary story and ancestral traditions of these 39 Indigenous Peoples. Learn more in Travel + Leisure.

Why Butter Is Better for You Than You Thought
We love butter, as did most of the amazingly healthy Indigenous Peoples Dr. Price studied on his globetrotting expedition 100 years ago. While this article attempts to walk the line between our nation’s failed nutritional standards and a healthy diet, you’ll find value if you read the paragraph starting with, “However, butter actually does offer…” Contrary to what we have been told for decades, saturated fats are an important part of a balanced and healthy diet. Read the article at Real Simple.