Guess what? September is National Organic Harvest Month!   What does it mean? I know what you’re thinking, National Organic Month is nowhere to be found on my calendar so what in the world is it? Well, it originated from organic farmers and natural foods communities to help educate the public about organic farming and foods. It is a month-long campaign to raise awareness of organic farming and production.  In addition to promoting organic foods, it brings attention to how organic farming benefits the earth and makes sure the foods we put into our body are the healthiest and purest… Read More

August 31st is National Trail Mix Day! Trail mix is a combination of different nuts and dried fruits that is known to be a protein-packed portable snack.  It has been around for decades, but where in the world did it come from?   Some sources claim that it was invented by two original Californian surfers one day in 1968 when they combined peanuts and raisins to make GORP (good old raisins and peanuts) as a quick and portable snack, However, as long ago as that seems, it’s been around much longer than that. Likely originating in Europe but mixes went… Read More

Hello, fellow nutrition fans! Guess what? March is National Nutrition Month. WOOHOO! What does that mean? Well simply, it is just a month of increased awareness of what you’re putting into your body. The theme for 2018 is “Go further with Foods”. The focus this year is on food preparation to get more and waste less. By preparing foods in advance you benefit by saving money and food, whilst eating healthier. Here are some ways you can include Nutrition Month in your everyday life! 1. Create your own menu:     I know this sounds like overkill but trust me,… Read More

Candyland has opened a second Monterey location on the Monterey Wharf! They offer a great array of traditional chocolate, gummies, and treats, as well as showcasing many SunRidge Farms chocolate and nut items!  We stopped by to check our candies in their store and see how their grand opening went!          Feeling inspired? Browse SunRidge Farms chocolate items online now.

When I was younger, I never realized how amazing oats and oatmeal could be. It was probably because it brings back memories of going downstairs for breakfast before school and getting that same bowl of plain tasteless oatmeal. Every. Single. Day. However, that was the old me. I have recently discovered a whole world of oatmeal that I had no idea existed. To tell the truth, it really is the ultimate breakfast option: it’s filling and hearty, and yet it’s one of the healthiest meals you can eat. The trick is knowing your oats. There are many types of oats… Read More

On the surface, Fair Trade is a social movement: a grassroots movement with a goal. Fair Trade products are made with the people and the planet in mind. Fair Trade Certified explains that those with this certification, “[build] a global model around the concept that economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods are the basis for a market that works for everyone.” Fair Trade works to ensure that farmers in developing nations gain improved working and trading conditions. It also works to improve sustainable farming practices and thriving healthy communities.   How Does it Work? Anything that is Fair Trade Certified has… Read More

 Burying the Lead It was simply tough times and difficult choices.  A little more than a week before the 2016 United States presidential election, the New York Times ran this story that rocked a number of people.   Because of its timing, however, the story was lost in the controversy of that contentious election. In journalistic terms, it is called “Burying the Lead.”  All eyes were on Trump versus Clinton. There was little fanfare about a topic that was so critical to everyday lives.  Nevertheless, the overarching theme of the piece written by Danny Hakim on OCT. 29, 2016 resonates with everyone… Read More

  If you ever find yourself traveling in the southern part of the United States, you owe it to yourself to make your way to Albany, Georgia.  Albany prides itself on its 600,000 Pecan tress.  Now, Pecan trees can get up to anywhere from 66 to 121 feet high and they can live for around 200 years.  They are stunningly beautiful and serene. I am not suggesting chucking out all the antidepressants and heading to Albany to solve all of your problems; however, a picnic under the Pecan trees while listening to the Allman Brothers play “Melissa,” might prove good… Read More

It’s National Peanut Month! Yet again, we find a national holiday for as many food-related items as possible. Bet you didn’t know that March is National Peanut Month.  Catch your breath; I know I just rocked your world.  OK, maybe rocked is too strong a word.   Stunned, shocked, staggered, or even astonished is also probably over the top but we are talking peanuts, folks…peanuts!  Actually, up until 1974 it was just National Peanut Week, but wise men and women came to their senses, recognized the error of their ways and presto changeo, wisdom prevailed throughout the land and they gave… Read More