I’m so thrilled to once again be partnering with the California Strawberry Commission on a fun new educational campaign.
My long-time followers will know that I’ve written a number of strawberry-themed articles in the past, and I never turn down an opportunity to shine the spotlight on one of my favourite fruits. Spotlight is the right word for this campaign.
California Strawberries – The Nutritional Benefits
I could easily write you a multi-page essay on all of the unique nutritional compounds that strawberries contain, but I will try to share all that goodness in just a few sentences instead.
I’ll start by pointing out that strawberries are particularly rich in a wide-array of healthy antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols.
These compounds are a major reason why strawberries are thought to play an important role in the prevention of both cancer and heart disease.
In fact, the American Institute For Cancer Research (AICR) identifies strawberries as one of a group of foods that has the potential to play a role in cancer prevention.
Strawberries aren’t just a food for the future though, they are also a food right now.
A serving of just 8 strawberries has as much Vitamin C as a medium orange and is a good source of both potassium and fibre, two nutrients that Canadians may fall short in.
Their high Vitamin C content makes them an exceptional fruit choice for vegans and vegetarians, who may combine strawberries with plant-based iron sources such as oatmeal, nuts and seeds to help enhance the absorption.
Yet it’s not just their nutritional value that makes California strawberries fashionable, it’s the taste, vibrancy and aesthetic they can bring to any dish.
Allow me to explain!
Strawberries – The Most Fashionable Food?
Whoever said that food can’t be fashionable?
Strawberries can turn on the style and vibrancy in any dish or hold their own as a snack at any time of the day.
Don’t believe me?
Check out these visually stunning recipes below that can be prepared and enjoyed by kitchen pros and newbies alike.
So what are you waiting for?
It’s time to take a walk down the runway (or the grocery isle in this case) and grab yourself some California strawberries which are in season now and often when local strawberries are not!
Andy De Santis RD MPH
