Diet

[Kacie_bride]

Are you a vegetarian?

[CarlosHoney]

I am!! :bbmrgreen:

Well, right now I'm a pescitarian. I'll give up the fish that I'm eating twice a week once Elias weans.

[Kacie_bride]

No, I could never ever be a vegetarian! I love meat! I love steaks, hamburgers, etc. I could never give up meat. I eat beef, chicken, pork, fish, and other sea animals. I would not eat horse or dog though. To me that is gross.

[mariaandmanish]

I'm a meat eater. I don't go without meat for very long. I do it on Tuesdays, because that is part of Manish's religion, that we don't eat meat on Tuesdays. And, I also rarely eat beef of any sort, but chicken and pork.. I'll eat those anytime!

[Kacie_bride]

I am!! :bbmrgreen:

Well, right now I'm a pescitarian. I'll give up the fish that I'm eating twice a week once Elias weans.

Have you always been or did you decide to as an adult?

[CarlosHoney]

I started three years ago. Just decided one day that I'd give it a try. That was three years ago. One of the best decisions I've ever made.

We're going to raise Elias vegetarian until he can understand what meat is, where it comes from, and what kind of sacrifice the animal makes for you to be able to eat it.

I've been eating fish for about a month because of my mood swings. The boost in protein and omega 3s has really evened me out. Once he weans, as I said, I'm going to be vegan again.

[Kacie_bride]

I started three years ago. Just decided one day that I'd give it a try. That was three years ago. One of the best decisions I've ever made.

We're going to raise Elias vegetarian until he can understand what meat is, where it comes from, and what kind of sacrifice the animal makes for you to be able to eat it.

I've been eating fish for about a month because of my mood swings. The boost in protein and omega 3s has really evened me out. Once he weans, as I said, I'm going to be vegan again.

Is Carlo a vegan?

[CarlosHoney]

No, quite the opposite! :bbmrgreen:

When we met, I was super unhealthy. Jack in the Box at 4am, a pack of Camel Wides (full flava!!) every few days, and Carlo was really into health food, drank nothing but water, 100 situps and pushups EVERY DAY.

Well, I wrecked that. Now he smokes and drinks soda non-stop. Eats meat, dairy, whatever... I'm much healthier than him.

But, he thinks that it is very important for our family to have a healthy sensibility. He plans on giving up meat so as not to confuse Elias (Why doesn't Mommy do it, when Daddy does?) and eat it only occasionally.

I'm not forcing him at all.. It's totally up to him. ;)

[LizabethDavis]

Nope. I like all kinds of food. I don't think I could ever be a vegetarian. I like food too much.

[Kacie_bride]

Nope. I like all kinds of food. I don't think I could ever be a vegetarian. I like food too much.

Me either! That chicken fried steak would be missed way to much!

[LaceyinPgh]

I eat fish 2-3 times per week. I also try to get at least one vegetarian meal in per week as well. Occasionally, I will eat poultry. I absolutely will not eat beef, veal, lamb, pork, or wild game.

I used to be a very strict vegetarian for both health and animal welfare reasons until about 5 years ago. However, Sean was a meat 7 times a week guy so we had to reach a compromise. I wasn't cooking meat at all. Nor, was I making two seperate meals a night. Sean is great at respecting the fact that I will not cook meat. If he wants a steak he has 2 options.: one to fire up the grill himself or two, dinner out. I don't expect him to compromise his culinary choices for me as long as he doesn't expect me to compromise my choices for him.

He is starting to get a little more health wise since he has gained a little weight. So, we should be shifting to more vegetarian meals in the future since he wants to start seeing a personal trainer.

I will say, Carrie, I'm glad that you are raising Elias to be a vegetarian until he is able to make his own choices. I because a very strict vegetarian in high school. I was surprised, both of my parents were very accepting of the choice and did what they could to help me. I appreacited that from them.

[CarlosHoney]

I don't expect him to compromise his culinary choices for me as long as he doesn't expect me to compromise my choices for him.
.........
I will say, Carrie, I'm glad that you are raising Elias to be a vegetarian until he is able to make his own choices. I because a very strict vegetarian in high school. I was surprised, both of my parents were very accepting of the choice and did what they could to help me. I appreacited that from them.I'm the same way. Carlo and I understand each other, and he's proud of me for being resolute and passionate about things in my life...

Before I was a Lactivist (Breastfeeding Activist) I was an Animal Rights Activist. I'm becoming more settled down in all of these things, though anything in life that I'm passionate about I'll be very outspoken on.

I know that the reason that Carlo and I are both overweight (aside from both of us being formula fed) is because our parents never really forced veggies on us. My mom never cooked them, and Carlo's mom never made him eat any. It's still a battle to get anything better than a slab of beef and mac-n-cheese in the guy... ;)

[LaceyinPgh]

I know that the reason that Carlo and I are both overweight (aside from both of us being formula fed) is because our parents never really forced veggies on us. My mom never cooked them, and Carlo's mom never made him eat any. It's still a battle to get anything better than a slab of beef and mac-n-cheese in the guy... ;)
You don't want to force veggies on Elias. It will make him resent them. You just want to teach him that they taste good. My mother just always offered fruits and veggies to me when I was little. They were always in the house. I was taught that they tasted good. She kept veggies cut up in the refrigerator (these were the days befor you could just by everything ready to go at the market. You actually had to clean and cut it yourself! Oh the inhumanity of having to peel your own carrot.) There was always a fruit bowl on the table. I was just taught to reach for these first. Also, don't deny "treats". Just get him to understand taht things like candy or fruit chews or a can of soda are once a day deals. There was always a lunch cake in my lunch bag and chips in the cabinet. But, because I knew I was never going to be denied these things, I didn't feel the need to gorge myself on them as soon as my mom carried them in the house.

[CarlosHoney]

You don't want to force veggies on Elias. It will make him resent them. You just want to teach him that they taste good.Girl, I'm way ahead of you!! :p

I've decided to go with the "do you want XXX or XXX?" approach, instead of "What do you want?" Like, offer two healthy choices. There isn't going to be a "I don't like that" concept. If he really, genuinely doesn't like it, no problem. I don't like mashed potatoes... But I want to really be open minded in our home with the food.

He'll get sweets, but they'll be moderately healthy sweets. Like, a muffin with flax and sesame seeds in it (omegas and calcium) instead of a cupcake, or a soy smoothie instead of a milkshake. I wanna keep sorbets, trail mix, veggies, and prezels to snack on, and I've already got that fabulous bowl that you sent me on my table *just* for my fruits!! :bbmrgreen:

[hummingbird521]

I could not go without my meat and potatoes. I am definetly not a vegetarian. I love all types of food. But to me nothing beats a good medium rare rib eye steak with mushrooms.

[mlm063007]

I am not a vegetarian, I dont think that I ever could be. I LOVE all kinds of meats. One of my favorite meals is deer steak with mashed potatoes & gravy. How could I pass that up? :drool:

[70707Bride]

I eat everything!

[CarlosHoney]

I am not a vegetarian, I dont think that I ever could be. I LOVE all kinds of meats. One of my favorite meals is deer steak with mashed potatoes & gravy. How could I pass that up? :drool:It's pretty easy when it's just not appealing to you. I never cared for red meat (actually hated hamburgers throughout my whole childhood). Meat just doesn't sound good to me at all anymore. It makes me think of something dead rather than food. Even fish I have a hard time eating right now.. I'm eating more shrimp than I used to.. And Lots of Tilapia..

But I love being Vegetairan. I feel so good, clean, and healthy. Never get that disgustingly full feeling.. I think it's the fact that I'm eating living food, and get as much locally farmed produce as possible.

[Jenn060306]

I only eat chicken and turkey. Occassionally i will have ham. But very rarely. I can not tollerate any red meat. It makes me sick to my stomic. I eat chicken 1-2 times a week. Depends on what's going on. I won't cook meat for myself for dinner when Mark is not home. But when he is home and we cook we'll make chicken. I encourage mark to get beef or fish when we are out because i don't cook it. We are going to be getting a BBQ soon so Mark will be able to make more beef then.
I have been toying with going vegitarian but still having milk, eggs and cheese. (I don't think i could give up cheese) I eat so little meat i don;t think it would make a difference really.

[CarlosHoney]

If you have a sensitive stomach, it's worth giving it a shot.

[ladymelissa]

I like all types of meat and fish, we eat a very well balanced diet, but I do not plan on giving up meat. I drink milk and eat eggs and cheese as well.

CarlosHoney- Be careful with too much fish. I heard that some fish (I can't remember which kinds) can be high in Mercury which does build up in your system and it should be eaten no more than a couple times per week.

[MOB Karen]

I eat everything too!! :D

[Valmai]

I will eat all kinds of meats - in fcat i'll eat all kinds of everything lol I love trying out different foods x

[LaceyinPgh]

CarlosHoney- Be careful with too much fish. I heard that some fish (I can't remember which kinds) can be high in Mercury which does build up in your system and it should be eaten no more than a couple times per week.
You get the mercury in your heavier fatty fishes (tuna, mackrel, herring, shark, swordfish.) That being said, does anyone actually eat herring? If you stick to shrimp/shellfish, talapia, salmon, cod, ect. you are usually good. IUknow my gynocologist has said that any woman of child bearing age should limit the canned tuna to no more than once or twice a month because the mercury is so high in that. (It is a good thing I HATE canned tuna, fesh however is another story.)

[CarlosHoney]

I like all types of meat and fish, we eat a very well balanced diet, but I do not plan on giving up meat. I drink milk and eat eggs and cheese as well.

CarlosHoney- Be careful with too much fish. I heard that some fish (I can't remember which kinds) can be high in Mercury which does build up in your system and it should be eaten no more than a couple times per week.Oh, I am. No more than twice a week! :bbmrgreen:

[CarlosHoney]

You get the mercury in your heavier fatty fishes (tuna, mackrel, herring, shark, swordfish.) That being said, does anyone actually eat herring? If you stick to shrimp/shellfish, talapia, salmon, cod, ect. you are usually good. IUknow my gynocologist has said that any woman of child bearing age should limit the canned tuna to no more than once or twice a month because the mercury is so high in that. (It is a good thing I HATE canned tuna, fesh however is another story.)Yeah, the first fish I ate was some Tuna steak. I made a very special, candlelit dinner for Carlo. He walked into the house and it was all candlelit, nice soft music playing, I made Tuna Steaks, asparagus, and ceasar salad with shortbread and iced tea. It was really good!

[ladymelissa]

For those that are vegetarian and esp. vegan how do you get all the calories, fat and protein you need everyday? I have a fairly high metabolism and it seems when I don't eat some sort of "stick to your ribs" type foods, I am famished all the time. If I skip my eggs in the morning and eat the equivalent amount of calories in cereal, juice (100% fruit juice) and milk. I am so hungry and I feel that I am ready to pass out in like 2 hours. I still work in plenty of fruits and veggies, along with the meat and stuff, but I could not survive on that alone.

[CarlosHoney]

For those that are vegetarian and esp. vegan how do you get all the calories, fat and protein you need everyday? I have a fairly high metabolism and it seems when I don't eat some sort of "stick to your ribs" type foods, I am famished all the time. If I skip my eggs in the morning and eat the equivalent amount of calories in cereal, juice (100% fruit juice) and milk. I am so hungry and I feel that I am ready to pass out in like 2 hours. I still work in plenty of fruits and veggies, along with the meat and stuff, but I could not survive on that alone.Here's a typical day for me:

I drink soy milk and eat tofu, lots of beans, eggs, cheese, yogurt, etc. for protein. I use raw sesame seeds for calcium. I sprinkle them on just about anything that I eat.. And flax seeds for my omega 3's. I'm still taking my prenatals.

Something to consider is that the USDA reccomends more protein that the body actually needs.. I eat for a healthy week, instead of trying to get everything every single day.

[ladymelissa]

Here's a typical day for me:

I drink soy milk and eat tofu, lots of beans, eggs, cheese, yogurt, etc. for protein. I use raw sesame seeds for calcium. I sprinkle them on just about anything that I eat.. And flax seeds for my omega 3's. I'm still taking my prenatals.

Something to consider is that the USDA reccomends more protein that the body actually needs.. I eat for a healthy week, instead of trying to get everything every single day.
I am going to have to try flax seeds, omega 3s are probably the weakest area of my diet.

I am not even sure what the USDA recommends, I was basing it on how I feel. I workout a lot and have a lot of muscle to build and maintain.

[WebLady]

I am definitely a carnivore ;) I don't eat all kinds of meat or vegetables for that matter, I just eat what I like.

I have no problems with people that want to be vegetarian or vegan or whatever, in fact I think it takes a certain about of dedication to do it and I respect that.

But I can't stand it when you get one of them that likes to protest and preach to you about why you shouldn't eat meat. As with anything else in life, I leave people to their own choices, even if I don't agree, I expect the same.

I don't think I have seen this from Carrie and I have much respect for her because of it :D

About omega 3s, that is from fish right? I probably need more of that, maybe I should try some of that flax seed oil stuff too ;)

[ladymelissa]

I am definitely a carnivore ;) I don't eat all kinds of meat or vegetables for that matter, I just eat what I like.

I have no problems with people that want to be vegetarian or vegan or whatever, in fact I think it takes a certain about of dedication to do it and I respect that.

But I can't stand it when you get one of them that likes to protest and preach to you about why you shouldn't eat meat. As with anything else in life, I leave people to their own choices, even if I don't agree, I expect the same.

I don't think I have seen this from Carrie and I have much respect for her because of it :D

About omega 3s, that is from fish right? I probably need more of that, maybe I should try some of that flax seed oil stuff too ;)
ITA, also the ones that make a big production about it bother me, like expecting/requesting a separate meal when they are a guest at someone's house or event where dinner is served. There are a couple things I am allergic to, but I would never expect someone to make me a separate dinner (if that is what they are serving), I quietly eat what I can and then eat when I get home if I am still hungry.

BTW, where in the grocery store are flax seeds sold? I have never seen them.

[LaceyinPgh]

BTW, where in the grocery store are flax seeds sold? I have never seen them.
Look in your organic/natural food section. If not there, check a health foods store.

[WebLady]

... expecting/requesting a separate meal when they are a guest at someone's house or event where dinner is served. There are a couple things I am allergic to, but I would never expect someone to make me a separate dinner (if that is what they are serving), I quietly eat what I can and then eat when I get home if I am still hungry.
I agree, the only time I expect someone to even try to accommodate me is at a family gathering, like Thanksgiving. When I have people over I try to make something that everyone likes. I will make potato salad and serve cranberry sauce because my FIL likes it, but DH and I don't. Last year I started cutting back on sodium so I asked my mother to not use salt in anything and she had a fit, even when I offered to make the whole meal myself and she could put salt on what she wanted :bbrolleyes: but that is anther topic ;)

... BTW, where in the grocery store are flax seeds sold? I have never seen them.
I don't think I've seen this at the store, but I have seen flax seed oil capsules.

[ladymelissa]

Look in your organic/natural food section. If not there, check a health foods store.
Thanks, I'll have to look. Unfortunately I just went to the store yesterday, but I will put them on the list.

[LaceyinPgh]

Thanks, I'll have to look. Unfortunately I just went to the store yesterday, but I will put them on the list.
You sound like me. You went to the grocery store once this week. That is your limit. If we run out of food before in the next 7 days, we just go hungry!

[ladymelissa]

You sound like me. You went to the grocery store once this week. That is your limit. If we run out of food before in the next 7 days, we just go hungry!
Pretty much, I don't really have a set day to go. I go when we are really out of necessities, milk and bananas are usu. the first to run out. I probably go about every 5-7 days.

[CarlosHoney]

Thanks, I'll have to look. Unfortunately I just went to the store yesterday, but I will put them on the list.If you have a Whole Foods type place, try in the bulk section. I've seen vacuum sealed bags of flax seeds (like a bag of coffee) but they were incredibly expensive. I got a little bag with probably 3 cups in it for a couple bucks. Stir them into your hot cereal, put them on top of your salad, bake them into your muffins. Try not to cook them, however, because they loose potency.

Also, get raw sesame seeds if you're looking for calcium. :bbmrgreen:

[rainbowtreat]

I am a meat eater. I like my steaks and burgers on occasion but I perfer chicken. I could eat this every day if it was just me. When ever we go out to eat I alwasy look for chicken or fish. We dont eat alot of fish at home so It is usaly what I get.

Tuna is something they want pregnant woman to eat more of. I was never sure why.


I have a question for those of you who are vegetarian only because I worked with a girl at one time who was, as well as never shave and stuff like that. Would you use a feather pillow or blanket, or wear a fur coat? Just asking becasue of this one girl.

[AllyM1]

I am definitely not a vegan or vegetarian. I tried doing it once in high school but I missed eating chicken. Plus, I get a lot of protein from the meat I eat. I will eat beef and chicken. I will not eat anything from a pig and I REFUSE to eat veal, I hate the taste of fish.

I love animals, but I do not put animals on the same standards of humans. I can't stand when people try preaching to me how it's unhealthy or that I shouldn't eat meat... It's annoying! (Now I'm not saying anyone is doing this, but people have before to me)

[rainbowtreat]

I love animals, but I do not put animals on the same standards of humans. I can't stand when people try preaching to me how it's unhealthy or that I shouldn't eat me... It's annoying! (Now I'm not saying anyone is doing this, but people have before to me)


I hope your not eating yourself, we are talking about eating meat here lol :p !!!!

[AllyM1]

Wow thanks for pointing that out! How silly of me! =)

[CarlosHoney]

I have a question for those of you who are vegetarian only because I worked with a girl at one time who was, as well as never shave and stuff like that. Would you use a feather pillow or blanket, or wear a fur coat? Just asking becasue of this one girl.I don't. I do wear leather, mainly because the cow is dead anyway, and most of the leather I own I got before I became a vegetarian. I don't know a whole lot about down pillows, but I don't buy them.

I think that fur is just SICK. I don't think that anyone needs fur. The animals are raised only for their fur. Their rotting bodies are dumped, not used for anything else at all.. They are raised in filthy cages, with many many other animals in them. Not fed properly, abused, their paws usually have open sores from wire bottom cages.. Or they are caught in the wild with a steel-jaw type trap (which are illegal in many countries)... And the ones raised in captivity are electricuted to death by sticking a rod up their anus.

I don't understand why anyone would subject another animal to this kind of life and death when there are fake furs avalable that are less expensive and just as convincing. :bbmad:

[ladymelissa]

Their rotting bodies are dumped, not used for anything else at all.. They are raised in filthy cages, with many many other animals in them. Not fed properly, abused, their paws usually have open sores from wire bottom cages.. Or they are caught in the wild with a steel-jaw type trap (which are illegal in many countries)... And the ones raised in captivity are electricuted to death by sticking a rod up their anus.

OMG! That is horrible! I had no idea it was that bad! The electrocution is sickening. BTW I don't own/wear fur.

[CarlosHoney]

OMG! That is horrible! I had no idea it was that bad! The electrocution is sickening. BTW I don't own/wear fur.It is. I never knew either.. Puppy/Kitty mills are just as bad. Never buy puppies from a pet store. Always go to a shelter or reputable breeder. :bbmrgreen:

[AllyM1]

I don't think it's right for animals to be slaughtered purposely just for the fur.. Now if an animal dies naturally, or they are using the animal for food, I don't see a problem with using it's fur. But I don't know if you could really even tell what happened to the animal the fur came from.

I don't wear fur because it reminds me of Cruella Deville from 101 Dalmations and I know it sounds funny but I just don't like people who wear fur...

[AllyM1]

What I was trying to say is that my friend bought a dog from a pet store and spent $1500. It's a healthy dog, it just does weird stuff like eat its own poop.... I don't neccessarily think it's because of the mill, maybe, but that's disgusting.

[LaceyinPgh]

I have a question for those of you who are vegetarian only because I worked with a girl at one time who was, as well as never shave and stuff like that. Would you use a feather pillow or blanket, or wear a fur coat? Just asking becasue of this one girl.

I wear leather only because the animal (cow, sheep, goat) has died anyway. I don't use feather pillows or mattresses. I never got in the habit of it because of my allergies. I always use the "down alternative" because, I just like being able to breath in my sleep. I would NEVER wear a fur coat, fur anything for that matter. I won't even buy a sweater that has angora in it. (Which kills me because I always have to pass up GREAT sweaters). Carrie, summed up the reasons for me so there is no need to repeat them. I also don't wear silk because to get the silk threads, they boil the silk worms alive to break the silk thread lose. (I also won't eat whole lobsters or crabs because of this practice.)

[CarlosHoney]

I wear leather only because the animal (cow, sheep, goat) has died anyway. I don't use feather pillows or mattresses. I never got in the habit of it because of my allergies. I always use the "down alternative" because, I just like being able to breath in my sleep. I would NEVER wear a fur coat, fur anything for that matter. I won't even buy a sweater that has angora in it. (Which kills me because I always have to pass up GREAT sweaters). Carrie, summed up the reasons for me so there is no need to repeat them. I also don't wear silk because to get the silk threads, they boil the silk worms alive to break the silk thread lose. (I also won't eat whole lobsters or crabs because of this practice.)Me too. Plus, lobsters are my *favorite* animals. I think that they're really cute. No lie. :bbmrgreen:

[AllyM1]

Bugs and things like that I am sorry but I really could care less about. I don't like that there are laws protecting animals and not human beings.

[CarlosHoney]

Bugs and things like that I am sorry but I really could care less about. I don't like that there are laws protecting animals and not human beings.There are laws protecting human beings. You will go to jail if you are abusive (physically, verbally), if you hit someone, if you try to kill someone, etc. The laws in place protecting animals are there because they can't pick up the phone and call the police. They can't just say "Hey, officer! This guy has been beating me with a belt for the last 3 years, and they only feed me twice a week! I've been chained up in the back yard the whole time I've been here, I get no attention, I've got fleas, and my neck has grown over my collar. I need surgery!! Help!!"

[AllyM1]

I'm talking about more ridiculous things like laws against killing whales and such (which I agree that animals should not be killed for fun) but we are able to murder unborn children. An unborn child can't tell his/her mommy that it wants to live it doesn't want to be ripped to pieces and sucked out into a waste basket. I understand the whole protecting animals, but if I have to choice to defend the innocent unborn over a black bear, I will do it.

I don't know.. I mean I love animals... I would do anything in my power to protect an animal, but there's a line that I have to draw when it comes to certain things.

Your decision to not eat meat is just that, your decision... I'm not knocking it. Like I said there are animals that I specifically will not eat. I will not eat veal because I feel it's wrong to kill baby cows. I don't eat pigs because they are 1. cute but 2. dirty, and 3 they are not hooven animals.

I guess I started venting at the beginning, I'm sorry. I'm not trying to offend anyone...

[LaceyinPgh]

I'm talking about more ridiculous things like laws against killing whales and such (which I agree that animals should not be killed for fun) but we are able to murder unborn children.
Whaling isn't illegal, it is just closely monitored. This is because we as humans can't be responsible with nature and have hunted 2 species of whales into extiction, 1 species to the point of being critically endangered, 5 to the point of being endangered, and 13 species are about to be added to that group. As for the unborn child comment, not everyone can agree on that one. But, we can agree that if we wipe out the largest marine mammal in the world, there will be dire consequences. Just like if any other species becomes extinct, the entire ecosystem suffers.

I don't eat pigs because they are 1. cute but 2. dirty, and 3 they are not hooven animals.
I'm just asking out of curiosity, do you keep a fully Kosher or Halal diet?

[CarlosHoney]

I'm talking about more ridiculous things like laws against killing whales and such (which I agree that animals should not be killed for fun) but we are able to murder unborn children. An unborn child can't tell his/her mommy that it wants to live it doesn't want to be ripped to pieces and sucked out into a waste basket. I understand the whole protecting animals, but if I have to choice to defend the innocent unborn over a black bear, I will do it.

I don't know.. I mean I love animals... I would do anything in my power to protect an animal, but there's a line that I have to draw when it comes to certain things.

Your decision to not eat meat is just that, your decision... I'm not knocking it. Like I said there are animals that I specifically will not eat. I will not eat veal because I feel it's wrong to kill baby cows. I don't eat pigs because they are 1. cute but 2. dirty, and 3 they are not hooven animals.

I guess I started venting at the beginning, I'm sorry. I'm not trying to offend anyone...It's okay to vent! We all understand that there are causes that are very important to each of us.. And I understand where you're coming from..

Me, personally, I feel like animals are all the same, and I don't think that people are really better than any other animal. Yeah, sure.. We're 'smart'.. But do you know any animals that go around starting wars? Blowing things up? Polluting the earth? Getting abortions? Nope, me neither. I think that humans trick themselves into forgetting that we're animals too...

Oh, and another thing about pigs. Pigs have the same understanding, comprehension, and though processes as a three year old human child. They're smarter than dogs. Think about that the next time you buy some sausage.

[CarlosHoney]

Whaling isn't illegal, it is just closely monitored. This is because we as humans can't be responsible with nature and have hunted 2 species of whales into extiction, 1 species to the point of being critically endangered, 5 to the point of being endangered, and 13 species are about to be added to that group. As for the unborn child comment, not everyone can agree on that one. But, we can agree that if we wipe out the largest marine mammal in the world, there will be dire consequences. Just like if any other species becomes extinct, the entire ecosystem suffers.So true!! Humans have wiped out several species because of greed, selfishness, and stupidity. I think that humans have to have some hind of law/guidelines/monitoring in place or they'll destroy the entire planet.

[Kacie_bride]

I don't eat pigs because they are 1. cute but 2. dirty, and 3 they are not hooven animals.



Pigs are not any dirtier than any other animal. This is a common misconception about pigs. In fact, most pigs raised for human consumption, breeding, or for show are kept in very clean conditions. This is mostly because producers are very conscious about the spread of disease. Pigs are very susceptable to disease. In fact, when you visit a pig operation many producers require you to wear covers on your shoes to prevent the spread of disease. I have visited many pig operations due to my involvement in animal science at my university. I also raised a couple of pigs for show purposes. They also have hooves.

The most filthy animal most of us eat are chickens. They are filthy and they are also canobolistic.

[CarlosHoney]

In fact, most pigs raised for human consumption, breeding, or for show are kept in very clean conditions. This is mostly because producers are very conscious about the spread of disease. Pigs are very susceptable to disease.Family farmers do this because they care for the animals, and know that to get the most out of them, they have to take good care of them.. In the facotry farming industry, they just feed them antibiotics.

[AllyM1]

I'm just asking out of curiosity, do you keep a fully Kosher or Halal diet?

Kosher... I only eat kosher meat, and I try to eat other things that are kosher as well but it's hard to folllow it strictly

[AllyM1]

Pigs are not any dirtier than any other animal. This is a common misconception about pigs. In fact, most pigs raised for human consumption, breeding, or for show are kept in very clean conditions. This is mostly because producers are very conscious about the spread of disease. Pigs are very susceptable to disease. In fact, when you visit a pig operation many producers require you to wear covers on your shoes to prevent the spread of disease. I have visited many pig operations due to my involvement in animal science at my university. I also raised a couple of pigs for show purposes. They also have hooves.

The most filthy animal most of us eat are chickens. They are filthy and they are also canobolistic.

You are right... I should have realized that when I said it that I was wrong...

Thanks for clearing that up.

[Kacie_bride]

Family farmers do this because they care for the animals, and know that to get the most out of them, they have to take good care of them.. In the facotry farming industry, they just feed them antibiotics.

These are rare cases. In school I have dealt mostly with commercial farming operations. Animals are generally kept in very clean and unstressful conditions. In slaughter houses animals are kept where they cannot even smell the scent of blood. The amount of stress and the condition of the animal has large effects on the quality of the meat. In stressful situations the sarcomers in the muscle of the animal tense up, causing the meat to not be tender.

Animals are not just fed antibiotics. They are given antibiotics, just like we as humans are. FDA and USDA guidelines are very strict. There are withdrawl times for any type of medication given. Commerical ranchers are very conscious of these guidelines. The antibiotics have cleared the system by the time the animal is slaughtered. If they were not given antibiotics disease would run rampant and human health would be compromised as well as animal well being.

On many family farmed operations cattle end up in the same place as the commerical ones, in the feed lot. After a certain amount of time the feeder calves are typically sent to another place to be backgrounded. Backgrounding is when the calves are on very good pastures in order to gain weight in preparation for the feed lot. There are several different ways to go about this. The orginial owner can acquire partial ownership or can fully sale the calves at the backgrounding stage. Some background themselves. Then they go to the feedlot where they eat grain.

Feedlots were designed in World War II because of the need for fast beef because of the war effort. The practice continued after that. Many people do not realize that if we did not use the feed lot beef prices would sky rocket. It takes much longer to raise cattle that are strictly grass fed. They also taste different.

[Kacie_bride]

Kosher... I only eat kosher meat, and I try to eat other things that are kosher as well but it's hard to folllow it strictly

Pretty cool. Did you know that there are separate slaughtering plants for Kosher as well as Halal? I took a meat science class a couple of semesters ago and learned all about it. It is pretty cool. They are also not subject to the Humane Slaughter Act. Which, don't get me wrong they are extremly humane, that is just because of a couple of small issues that would violate their religious views.

[AllyM1]

We raised a steer on grass only... It was really really good meat too... My parents are horse farmers, but they wanted good meat so they bought the steer. It broke my heart that he got killed, but that's the nature of the game...

[Kacie_bride]

We raised a steer on grass only... It was really really good meat too... My parents are horse farmers, but they wanted good meat so they bought the steer. It broke my heart that he got killed, but that's the nature of the game...

I have eaten grass fed beef, it is different, but not bad at all. It just would be to expensive to raise all beef like that commerically. My parents usually buy a steer once a year and half it with another family. The meat feeds us for a year. It is exceptional meat.

After awhile I guess I just got used to animals that lived at our home being killed for food. It is what they were put on this planet to do, in my opinion. That is just how the food chain works.

[AllyM1]

Pretty cool. Did you know that there are separate slaughtering plants for Kosher as well as Halal? I took a meat science class a couple of semesters ago and learned all about it. It is pretty cool. They are also not subject to the Humane Slaughter Act. Which, don't get me wrong they are extremly humane, that is just because of a couple of small issues that would violate their religious views.

Yeah, I like how there are seperate places. I think the difference between Kosher and Halal is that Kosher is Jewish law and Halal is Islamic law.

I am not Jewish, but when it comes to Kosher meats I just feel a lot better eating them. I have done this for a few years now. There are kosher markets in the Jewish part of the city, that's where we go to get our meat.

[AllyM1]

After awhile I guess I just got used to animals that lived at our home being killed for food. It is what they were put on this planet to do, in my opinion. That is just how the food chain works.

I completely agree. People have been eating cows, chickens, pigs, etc for thousands of years... That's what they are here for.

[Kacie_bride]

Yeah, I like how there are seperate places. I think the difference between Kosher and Halal is that Kosher is Jewish law and Halal is Islamic law.
.

Yes, that is right. There are different techniques required by their lawns to actually slaughter them. I will not go into it how they do it on here because the nature of it may sound worse than it really is. Regular plants are required to use another method under the Humane Slaughter Act. From personal experience, I think the Kosher method of slaughtering is actually more humane than what is required under the Humane Slaughter Act.

[AllyM1]

Kacie- have you guys ever raised turkeys or chickens?

I remember we had a turkey and we raised it specifically in mind for Thanksgiving... It was the best turkey I have ever had...

[LaceyinPgh]

Pretty cool. Did you know that there are separate slaughtering plants for Kosher as well as Halal? I took a meat science class a couple of semesters ago and learned all about it. It is pretty cool. They are also not subject to the Humane Slaughter Act. Which, don't get me wrong they are extremly humane, that is just because of a couple of small issues that would violate their religious views.
Kosher and Halal require a Rabbi or Mullah to be present at the time of slaughter to insure that the animal dies humanely and quickly. They also recite prayers for the animal at this time to insure that it died in the name of God/Allah. There are also very strict ways to process the animal after it has been killed. Also, there are rules for how long the meat can even be stored to insure its freshness. It is far more humane for the animal.

If you are going to keep a very strictly kosher diet, it goes beyond just purchasing kosher meat. (Which is mich more expensive than regular meat.) It really is an all day job to insure your meal is kosher.
1. Certain animals may not be eaten (pig, dog, donkey, animals with protruding canine teeth, amphibians, insects, birds of prey, and carnivores). This includes the flesh, organs, eggs, and milk of that animal.
2. The animals must be killed in accordance to Jewish Law.
3. All blood must be drained from the meat or broiled out before it is eaten.
4. Certains parts of permitted animlas must not be eaten.
5. Meat cannot be eaten with dairy. Fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and grains can be eaten with either meat or dairy. In some sects fish and meat cannot be eaten together.
6. Utensils (pots, pans, plates, flatware, serving ware, sink, countertops, ect.) that have come in contact with meat cannot be used with dairy and vice cersa. Utensils that have touched non kosher foods cannot come into contact with kosher foods. This applies only when the contact occured while the food was hot.
7. Grapes and grape products produced by non Jews may not be eaten.

Halal is the Muslim dietary law. It basically follows the same guidelines as the Kosher/Jewish dietary law. The only real difference sare that more types of fish aren't permitted. Animals must be slaughtered in the name of Allah as opposed to God. Alcohol or intoxicants are also banned.

[Kacie_bride]

Kacie- have you guys ever raised turkeys or chickens?

I remember we had a turkey and we raised it specifically in mind for Thanksgiving... It was the best turkey I have ever had...

Yes, both. I have raised lots of types of animals-turkey, chicken, rabbit, cattle, sheep, and pigs. Yeah, we had a turkey one year that grew so big that we had to buy a new pot to put him in! Those were the best birds ever!

[AllyM1]

I just remember it being really tender and really juicy...

[Kacie_bride]

It is far more humane for the animal.

I

I agree that it is more humane because of stunning. Under the Humane Slaughter Act we are required to stun animals before they are actually killed. Halal and Kosher plants are not. I have been in plants before and witnessed slaughtering of animals. We also have a lab here and I have participated in the slaughtering and processing of animals.

Beef generally hangs in a cooler for 2 weeks. Sheep, goats, pigs, and some others hang for about a week. This helps the sacromers to stretch and allows full rigor mortis to set in before the animal is processed. Meat will stay fresh for very long amounts of time when properly stored. It is very well monitored and any violations cause strict fines and other penalties.

I think the stunning process is actually worse than the killing process. However, that is the law.

[Kacie_bride]

I just remember it being really tender and really juicy...

Ours were too!

[LaceyinPgh]

I just remember it being really tender and really juicy...
You can get that any time that you want. Just make sure to buy a certified organic AND free range turkey/chicken/duck, ect.

[CarlosHoney]

You can get that any time that you want. Just make sure to buy a certified organic AND free range turkey/chicken/duck, ect.Yep. It's true!!

Free range alone doesn't really mean much. It just means that the animals had an outside area avalable. Which means that it could be a 4x4 pen connected to the giant warehouse that doesn't have a roof.

[Kacie_bride]

You can get that any time that you want. Just make sure to buy a certified organic AND free range turkey/chicken/duck, ect.

No, no. Home grown at your own place is better than that. A home grown anything would be the optimum way to go if you are going for taste. You also know exactly what goes into it. Our birds were WONDERFUL! I have never seen anything like what we raised those couple of years. Of course, how we raised those birds would never work in industry. We actually cooked stuff for the birds. There was some recipe we had. They turned out good.

And you have to watch out for certified stuff. There are ways to get around that. The Certified Angus beef is one such example. To be Certified Angus all it has to have is a black hide and grade prime or choice. That can be all types of breeds or cross breeds. I do have to say that it is pretty smart of the Angus Association. Their marketing techniques have all kinds of people thinking Angus beef is the best beef out there. While Angus cattle do produce high quality beef as general rule, there are certainly other breeds that produce just as well. The Hereford Association has been toying with Certified Hereford as well. I don't know about their criteria though.

[LaceyinPgh]

No, no. Home grown at your own place is better than that. A home grown anything would be the optimum way to go if you are going for taste. You also know exactly what goes into it. Our birds were WONDERFUL! I have never seen anything like what we raised those couple of years. Of course, how we raised those birds would never work in industry. We actually cooked stuff for the birds. There was some recipe we had. They turned out good.
As good as it might be, I don't have farm land to raise poultry. So, I will have to stick to the organic and free range birds that I buy at Whole Foods.

And you have to watch out for certified stuff. There are ways to get around that. The Certified Angus beef is one such example. To be Certified Angus all it has to have is a black hide and grade prime or choice. That can be all types of breeds or cross breeds. I do have to say that it is pretty smart of the Angus Association. Their marketing techniques have all kinds of people thinking Angus beef is the best beef out there. While Angus cattle do produce high quality beef as general rule, there are certainly other breeds that produce just as well. The Hereford Association has been toying with Certified Hereford as well. I don't know about their criteria though.
Certified organic has been inplace since 2002. It is quality controlled by the US Department of Agriculture to see that it label meets the basic federal guidelines. If you look at what you are purchasing, you will see a little green and white sticker or lable that says "USDA Certified Organic". This means that the food has been gorwn/raised to 1. Follow water and soil conservation rules. 2.Is antibiotic and growth hormone free. 3.Is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. While I have little faith in the governemnt and the buearacracy that it has spawned, even they probably couldn't mess this one up. (Note I said probably.)

[Kacie_bride]

[quote=AllyM1]. I will not eat veal because I feel it's wrong to kill baby cows. quote]

I don't eat veal either, but just because I don't really like it. Just an FYI about veal though. The majority of the calves that are used for veal are dairy bull calves. There is not much of a reason to steer them and raise them for meat because meat from dairy breeds (holstein, jersey, etc) is virtually useless. You can ground it up as ground beef, but that's about it.

As you probably know, only a select few animals are kept as intact males for breeding purposes. Fortunately for those against veal, science has found a way to sex semen. This is great for the dairy industry because they want more heifer calves than bulls. Now they can A.I. their cows to only have heifers. They can use the male semen when trying to have a bull for breeding purposes. That way they can take it from only the highest quality bulls and put it into only highest quality cows.

It is a win-win situation. Of couse that will not stop people from eating veal and veal being sold, but it may cause the cost of veal to rise. Dairy producers would rather have more heifer calves to eventually use as dairy cows than to sale the bull calves as veal. It is more profitable for them that way.

[Kacie_bride]

As good as it might be, I don't have farm land to raise poultry. So, I will have to stick to the organic and free range birds that I buy at Whole Foods.


I do have the available land and I wouldn't want to raise poultry again. They really are nasty creatures. I will stick to buying mine at the store as well.

[countrygirl]

As long as it's dead, BRING IT ON!!!! That's what God put (most) animals on Earth for!!!!

[AllyM1]

The thing that I find funny though is this... now I know not everyone has an opportunity to be able to buy eggs from the Amish, but I buy Amish eggs, they are brown, organic, no chemicals, etc... for $.99 a dozen. People will go to Kroger's and buy a dozen "organic" eggs for $3.50 a dozen. I would not buy eggs before spending $3.50 on a dozen of eggs. I don't know why organic/natural types of foods are expensive.

The turkey that we had from Thanksgiving was the best turkey I have ever had. I have had all kinds of other turkeys, and I'm sorry, but nothing, not even "organic" turkeys compare. But that's just my opinion. I'm not saying that other turkeys/chickens, etc are bad, it's just like Kacie said, homegrown is the best way to go... and it's the only way to be 100% of what went into that animal.

[CarlosHoney]

I don't know why organic/natural types of foods are expensive.Because it's way cheaper t use High Fruitcose Corn Syrup than Sugar. Because it's cheaper to cram a ton of animals into a space and give them hormones and antibiotics than it is to give each individual animal some space and food, without all the junk in it. Genetically modified produce lasts longer on shelves... etc...

[AllyM1]

I respect anyones decision to pay for organic food...

But one question, is eating an "organic" diet better, in your opinion, then just eating a naturally healthy lifestyle, sugar free, avoiding that dreadful corn syrup, etc?

I don't know if there are any studies that compare the health of someone who eats "organic" foods compared to someone who just eats healthy food...

[Kacie_bride]

[quote= I don't know why organic/natural types of foods are expensive.

[/quote]

I know the most about beef cattle (as compared to other consumption animals) so that is how I am going to explain.

Purely grass fed beef takes longer to reach the desired amount of marbling (fat between muscle), and other characteristics you want a feeder calf to achieve before it is slaughtered. A typical slaughter weight is around 1000-1200 lbs for a steer. Typically a steer who is raised in the typical way we do in industry will reach that level before the grass fed steer.

Here is a typical life style and some facts for a feeder calf intended for human consumption.

There are approxiamtely 800,000 cow/calf operations in the U.S. today. The average size of all beef cow operations is 40 head. Only 27,450 have over 200 head of cows. Depending on the location of the operation producers strive to have a certain amount of land per each cow. In the Texas Panhandle they recommend around 23 acres/head. Around my area it is much less than that. I can't remember the exact number and I don't have it written down where I can find it easily. It all depends on the climate in the region. Here you cannot drive for more than 10 minutues in a 100 mile radius without seeing cows everywhere.

They spend the first part of their lives with their mother in a pasture. Most cows are fed strictly grass and hay. Sometimes they are supplemented if there is not enough high quality forage with range cubes or something.

An average weight for weaning is around 500 lbs. This is around when they are 160-250 days old. Then the producer either backgrounds (also called stocker) or sales them to someone who backgrounds or retains ownership and someone else backgrounds. They are vaccinated at pre-weaning. 21 days later at weaning they are vaccinated again. Then 45 days after they arrive at the stocker they are vaccinated. This is called the VAC 45 program.

Typical vaccinations are for diseases such as Blackleg, BVD, etc. These are both conditions that are usually fatal. Many animals would die if this or some other type of vaccination program was not used. They are also given a dewormer which usually in industry is just poured onto the back on the animal. Before they go into the feedlot they are vaccinated again. This is very crucial. However, the industry is very consicous about withdrawl times. This is the amount of time it takes for the substance to leave the animal's body.

Sometimes growth implants are given pretty early on The public has negative views of growth implants. However, it is often misunderstood. There are more hormones in a glass of milk than what are given to animals in growth implants. The difference between implanted and non-implanted can be compared to one blade of grass in a football field. Not as many cattle are implanted as some people like to think. Implants can cost up to $1 per animal and they can be hard to get in. A lot of producers just do not find it to be that cost effective.

After the animal is backgrounded it is sent to the feedlot. This takes a bit of adjusting because up until then they are primarily grass fed. Cattle are ruminants, which means they have a 4 compartment stomach. Other ruminant animals are sheep, goats, deer. The compartments are the rumen, reticulum, ommasum, and abomassum. In the rumen there are microbes. These microbes are respsonsible for many things in terms of digestion. The microbes have to adjust to consuming and breaking down a grain diet. That is why at first they are put on a lower protein diet and gradually they up the protein in the diet. They are also often given probiotics, such as Rumensin. This helps the microbes. There are many people with PHDs in ruminant nutrition that formulate their rations. There are also veterinarians working on staff at feedlots.

Cattle in the feedlots are given plenty of room. There is a certain amount required by law for each feeder animal. Sick cattle are taken out immediately and seperated from the general area. They spend approx. 140 days at the feedlot and then they are slaughtered.

Generally you can finish a animal this way a good 6 months before you could a grass fed animal. Their carcasses also usually do not grade as high being grass fed.

[LaceyinPgh]

I respect anyones decision to pay for organic food...

But one question, is eating an "organic" diet better, in your opinion, then just eating a naturally healthy lifestyle, sugar free, avoiding that dreadful corn syrup, etc?

I don't know if there are any studies that compare the health of someone who eats "organic" foods compared to someone who just eats healthy food...

I don't know if there have been any studies done. I do eat a healthy diet for the most part. (I have been known to stop at McDonalds for some fries on my way home or to get my latte at Starbucks with the whipped cream, so I'm no health food saint.)

But, in my opinon, anytime you can cut out antibiotcs, growth hormones, processed food, artifiical flavors, and dyes, preservatives, and all those weird chemicals on the ingredients list that you can't pronounce, you probably are doing your body good. There are studies that show that the antibiotics in meat are having an effect on the American public. I just think that taking in extra growth hormones is probably going to cause more harm than good. The more natural that something is going to be, the easier time your body is going to have digesting it to retrieve the nutrients that we need.

That being said, not EVERYTHING I buy is 100% organic. But, the big stuff is. The produce, the meat, the dairy, and the eggs. Organic Annie's brand macaroni and cheese verses the good old fashion Kraft blue and white box, not that much of a difference. My husband prefers the taste of Kraft, we buy the Kraft. I do try to keep as much in my kitchen that is all natural as possible though.

From a culinary standpoint, organic produce, meat, and dairy taste better to me. I can tell a difference. (Oddly, the milk seems to last longer too. I haven't figured that one out yet.) Plus, at a natural foods/organic store like Whole Foods, you get a nicer selection, more one on one service, differnet products, and more heirloom and family produced merchandise. Plus it is a more relaxing and pleasant shopping experience, at least for me.

[CarlosHoney]

I have been known to stop at McDonalds for some fries on my way home or to get my latte at Starbucks with the whipped cream, so I'm no health food saint.You know, those are coated in beef fat, right? :ooh:

[Kacie_bride]

(Oddly, the milk seems to last longer too. I haven't figured that one out yet.).

My mom has bought the organic milk. She says the same thing.

[LaceyinPgh]

You know, those are coated in beef fat, right? :ooh:
Don't care, still good that once a year I stop to get them. I worked at McDonalds all through high school, compared to what most employees do to the deep fryers. The little miniscule bit of beef that may or may not on the fries, not nearly as bad to me as when they drop the bugs, retainers, and paper into that same oil. (Besides, they don't use seperate fryers for the chicken, fish, or fries so you are still getting residuals from that.

[LaceyinPgh]

My mom has bought the organic milk. She says the same thing.
It is really weird. I bought the carton I have now in the begining of August and the exp. date is September 11. It lasts forever. It might be more expensive, but Sean and I never finish a carton of milk. So it actually saves us money in the long run.

The eggs stay fresher longer too.

[CarlosHoney]

Don't care, still good that once a year I stop to get them. I worked at McDonalds all through high school, compared to what most employees do to the deep fryers. The little miniscule bit of beef that may or may not on the fries, not nearly as bad to me as when they drop the bugs, retainers, and paper into that same oil. (Besides, they don't use seperate fryers for the chicken, fish, or fries so you are still getting residuals from that.No, no... Look up the ingredients list. They're coated in sugar and beef fat before they hit the frier. :snide:

[LaceyinPgh]

No, no... Look up the ingredients list. They're coated in sugar and beef fat before they hit the frier. :snide:
Carrie, I worked there for two years. I know what they have on them. Trust me, I would rather eat that little microscopic bit of beef fat (or actually fat flavored with beef) than some of the other stuff that came out of that fryer and has left it's residue behind. The kids that work back in the kitchen did some nasty stuff. Besides, I only eat them once, maybe twice a year. The heartburn that they give me keeps me away. (Not to mention the amount of genetic heart disease taht is swinging my way as I age.) If that is all the more that I stray from food stances, I am still dong better than most.

A small order of fries from there is usually healthier for you to eat (beef fat or not) than most of their salads and that fruit parfait thing that they try to pass off as nutritious.

I want to add, that I am not belittling your opinion on the matter. I do care about the animal rights issue. But, for the most part my choices are made for health reasons. I have a lot of health factors that cause me to eat the way that I do. I try to stick to the human issues as well, but I also understand that not everything is going to match up with that all the time.

[CarlosHoney]

Oh, that's cool, Lacey.. I worked there too. Those nuggets... Ew..

I just didn't know how much of a "purist" you were.. Like, I don't eat anything with Gelatin in it, but my other vegetarian friend will.

Just wanted you to know! ;)

[Kacie_bride]

The eggs stay fresher longer too.

I don't usually buy eggs. My parents have yard birds for some reason. I guess they just like them or something. I usually eat those eggs. I use eggs so fast around here I wouldn't know if they last longer or not.

[LaceyinPgh]

Oh, that's cool, Lacey.. I worked there too. Those nuggets... Ew..

I just didn't know how much of a "purist" you were.. Like, I don't eat anything with Gelatin in it, but my other vegetarian friend will.

Just wanted you to know! ;)

I tried the vegetarian "jello" stuff once. It just didn't cut it. In fact it was kind of creepy and weird tasting. I'll stick to regular good old fashion Bill Cosby advertised Jell-O products.

[CarlosHoney]

I tried the vegetarian "jello" stuff once. It just didn't cut it. In fact it was kind of creepy and weird tasting. I'll stick to regular good old fashion Bill Cosby advertised Jell-O products.I was going to get that Vegan Jell-o.. Glad you saved me the trouble. :grinhappy:

[Kacie_bride]

I actually thought about getting that organic mac-n-cheese once. So Sean likes Kraft better? As for veggies, I prefer to eat what we grow over anything else you can buy in the store. Of course we can't do that all year, nor can we grow everything we like to eat. I do like the Farmer's Market.

[CarlosHoney]

I actually thought about getting that organic mac-n-cheese once. So Sean likes Kraft better? As for veggies, I prefer to eat what we grow over anything else you can buy in the store. Of course we can't do that all year, nor can we grow everything we like to eat. I do like the Farmer's Market.I prefer that Annie's Nataral Mac'n'cheese. That's just me...

But I love love love kraft mac mixed with english peas (the ones with the pearl onions!!), though Carlo can't stand it.

[LaceyinPgh]

I actually thought about getting that organic mac-n-cheese once. So Sean likes Kraft better? As for veggies, I prefer to eat what we grow over anything else you can buy in the store. Of course we can't do that all year, nor can we grow everything we like to eat. I do like the Farmer's Market.
Sean is weird about the organic stuff. In my experience when it comes to the "processed" food like the mac n cheese it just has a littl ebit of a blander flavor to us. The same goes with condiments, I just like my regular stuff. But, the produce and meat does taste better to me. (skip out on the Annie's organic bbq sauce. It was awful!)

I like our Farmer's market too. We have a really nice one in pIttsburgh. It is all local small operation grown produce, eggs, small family bakeries, and a guy who makes the best snow cones. It is 5 days a week, each day in a different neighborhood. Plus, a lot of the vendors take state food vouchers. I really like that because it encourages people with lower incomes to eat better. (The lower your socioeconomic status, usually the unhealthier your diet.) It gives more bang for the buck so to speak too. You get more for less usually at the farmers market around here.

Of course, like I stated in another post, I don't really have a place to grow or raise anything. Even if I did, I still don't think I would keep a veggie garden. My dad grows tomatoes and squash. So I get plenty of those. I did try one of those little potted strawberry bushes that you keep on the patio. But I had to give it to my mom because it attracted pigeons.

[ladymelissa]

There is some sort of meat in Jello? Why does one need a vegetarian version?

[WebLady]

There is some sort of meat in Jello? Why does one need a vegetarian version?
The gelatin in Jello and other similar products contains animal by products such as bone and cartilage. I don't eat Jello but I'm sure I've eaten stuff with gelatin in it, I just try not to think about it ;)

I heard gelatin is actually suppose to be good for your hair and nails and such.

[LaceyinPgh]

There is some sort of meat in Jello? Why does one need a vegetarian version?
Gelatin is made by boiling down the bones of cattle. Kind of nasty when you think of it. People who are very strict vegetarians or vegans have to be especially careful because so many products are made with gelatin (marshmallows and certain types of cany jump to my mind.) I'm not incredibly strict in my eating practices so I usually don't worry.

It is very good for your hair and nails because of the protien content. The only time I really eat it is if I have been sick and am on the liquid diet you do with things like the stomach flu.

[ladymelissa]

Wow, I had no idea!

[CarlosHoney]

Yeah, weird things that have animal by-product in them:

Noxema
Starburst
Skittles
Twinkies
Peeps
Gummy Bears/Worms and other Candies
Some Jellies/Jams

And here's some Jello Trivia:

Jell-O is the official state snack food of Utah, which is reported to have the highest per capita sales of green gelatin dessert of any U.S. state. Over-fondness of Jell-O is often considered a cliché trait of Mormons even in other areas.
Bill Cosby is often associated with Jell-O because of the many commercials he made for Jell-O branded products.
Jello Biafra, a well known figure within the punk community, took the first part of his stage name after the Jell-O brandname, and even ran for mayor of San Francisco using the Jell-O ad campaign catchphrase, "There's always room for Jello", as his campaign slogan.
Jell-O sponsored Jack Benny's radio comedy show in the 1930s and early 1940s; the program's official title during that period was The Jell-O Show.
So, carry on!! :cloppy:

[ladymelissa]

People who are vegan, put more effort into it than I had ever imagined. I figured it was tough, but Skittles would have never occurred to me.

[WebLady]

Yeah, weird things that have animal by-product in them:

Noxema
Starburst
Skittles
Twinkies
Peeps
Gummy Bears/Worms and other Candies
Some Jellies/Jams

DH and I like gummy bears, I've eateb Skittles and Starburst before but they are not that great to me. I hate Peeps (except to have them 'fight' in the microwave) I didn't think about the Jams and Jellies but I guess that makes sense too. Oh well :bbconfused:

And here's some Jello Trivia:
[LIST]
Jell-O is the official state snack food of Utah, which is reported to have the highest per capita sales of green gelatin dessert of any U.S. state. Over-fondness of Jell-O is often considered a cliché trait of Mormons even in other areas.

:bblol: Sorry I just think that is funny ;)

[CarlosHoney]

Yeah, it really is.

[ladymelissa]

Look in your organic/natural food section. If not there, check a health foods store.
I got some flaxseed today and they were in the natural food section! I tried them, they have a really neutral flavor, I put them on salad. They are so good for you! They are high in fiber and protein as well as the omega 3s! Thank you so much Carrie and Lacey for recommending them!:D

[ladymelissa]

Are you supposed to refrigerate flaxseed?

[LaceyinPgh]

Are you supposed to refrigerate flaxseed?
I find that most seeds and nuts aren't hurt by some "chill time". It keeps the oils and fats from going rancid as fast.

[brewsells]

Jell-O is the official state snack food of Utah, which is reported to have the highest per capita sales of green gelatin dessert of any U.S. state. Over-fondness of Jell-O is often considered a cliché trait of Mormons even in other areas.

No surprise to me there. You should see the things people make with Jell-O around here! I don't even like it all that much.. then people go and stick all kinds of **** in there!!

[MOB Karen]

[/list]No surprise to me there. You should see the things people make with Jell-O around here! I don't even like it all that much.. then people go and stick all kinds of **** in there!!

LOL!! Like booze!! :D

[Kacie_bride]

LOL!! Like booze!! :D

LOL! I love Jello shots!