Each year restaurants and food magazines search for food trends here in the US in order to keep up with changing demands. Chefs often set the trend, but this year it seems trends are coming from Americans' desire to eat better and embrace a healthy lifestyle, from the quinoa craze to the popularity of juices made with whole fruits and vegetables.
Even Mrs. Obama has gotten involved by promoting "Chose My Plate" and starting a White House kitchen garden, utilizing this garden in everyday meals.
Chefs across the nation are adding small plates to their menus, giving patrons healthier offerings as well as portion control. Fresh ingredients are turned into tasty dishes that won't pack on pounds.
People are focusing on quality, nutrient-dense foods like nuts and whole grains and less on foods that may be high in trans fat, sugar or salt. How we categorize foods are changing. Foods such as nuts, are now viewed as having health benefits rather than thinking of them as being fattening.
Sustainability is here to stay, as well, as many people, including chefs, try to buy local and in season foods, even in the winter months, rather than buying foods shipped half way around the world.
Obesity, especially in children, has become a major problem in the US as well as worldwide as many foreign countries become more affluent. Chefs are joining up with schools to help promote health at an early age by using health, delicious ingredients, teaching children where their food comes from, and helping them to make healthier food choices.
Making wise food choices promotes health, and with that a more active lifestyle. Food stores around Reno, especially Great Basin Food Coop, are promoting healthy food choices as well as encouraging us to eat more fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy foods has never been easier as many food stores give recipes, ideas and advise on how to cook healthier meals.
If you haven"t joined the move toward healthier eating, it's never too late! Bon Appetit, Reno!
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