By Ellen Karnowski
This letter is in response to Jim Hall”s letter of Friday Sept. 4. He wrote about concerns he is aware of in regard to young children having little or no respect for the environment, and their parents not teaching them the correct way. I would like to respond to his request for good ideas.
If the parents of young children would take their children to the sources of real food, such as farmers” markets, fruit stands, or farms themselves, and then actually serve raw fruits and vegetables along with wholesome prepared meals, the children would understand where their food comes from. They would learn to appreciate real flavors, not enhanced with MSG, sugar, or corn syrup, along with their variations. Schools can play a part in health education, but what is served at home they have no control over.
Parents and their families are facing tough times. The economy has slowed down, so it is time for people to return to their roots and stop using so many highly processed foods. We are paying for the packaging as well as paying to dispose of it. Getting food to order immediately doubles or triples the cost, so bringing your own lunch using containers is the economical way to go. It starts with using whole grains, veggies, and good protein sources. Gardens can be planted easily in containers or raised beds.
Perhaps, if the grandparents were to step in and offer to take the children to try these new flavors or go to a farm where they come from, it would make a difference. Just spending time with the adult, away from games and televisions, would enrich their lives. Relying on the highly processed foods that have become our way of life is killing us with heart disease and other related problems. Not just generation “F” but also our culture is to blame for the reliance on cheap, highly processed food. The number of commercials a typical child is exposed to is about 10,000 a year. Parents have to step up and make informed decisions. Do not allow the junk in your house. If you prepare wholesome foods, that is what is served and nothing else. Save the “treats” for special occasions.
Ellen Karnowski,
Kelseyville
