It is estimated that 4 to 6 thousand tons of sunscreen wash off of swimmers into our oceans every year. Now we are seeing the consequences.

A study published in the January 2008 issue of Environmental Health Perspectives found that four common conventional sunscreen ingredients kill an important algae that feeds coral. Without the algae, the coral turns white and dies. This has serious consequences for both ocean and human ecosystems. If you travel, be aware that many resorts and cruise lines are banning chemical sunscreens.

Health-conscious shoppers have been buying natural sunscreens for years because the reef-harming ingredients in conventional sunscreens, octinoxate, oxybenzone and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, as well as the preservative butylparaben, are also linked to a variety of health problems. According to the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database skindeep.ewg.org, the reef-damaging ingredients are linked to allergic reactions, endocrine disruption, and cancer.

Luckily, it is not hard to find quality, eco-friendly, people-friendly sunscreen. Aubrey Organics sunscreeen is economical and contains NO harmful ingredients. Aubrey products are available at Meadowsweet Market. Stock up on sun care before your summer travels!

Risotto is a traditional Italian rice dish. Often thought of as “restaurant food,” risotto has made its way to the home kitchen. Lundberg, makers of quality eco-farmed grains, makes it easier to prepare with delicious, lowfat Risotto mixes.
I was a little intimidated to try making Risotto because I heard it was a rather difficult dish to prepare, so this new mix sounded perfect for me to try. It doesn’t take long to saute the rice, so keep an eye on it.  Then simply add the liquid ingredients to the handy spice packet, and voila! You have prepared a rice side dish that is out of the ordinary. Risotto is a tender, fairly sweet rice that complements chicken very well.
Many people on gluten-free diets feel they can only eat “plain” rice for fear that the flavorings in mixes will contain gluten. Lundberg Risotto mixes are both gluten free and flavorful. I made the Cheddar Broccoli Risotto with grilled chicken for a casserole, and paired the Creamy Parmesan with a gluten-free breaded chicken and marinara (topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese), which was a real hit.

 Try these mixes for tasty rice side dishes that you will remember!  Lundberg Risotto mixes are available at Meadowsweet Market and juniperfoods.