Category: January 2019

Handling Recalled Food

Food recalls happen almost daily and many do not get a lot of publicity. In a majority of recalls, it is the manufacturer that issues a voluntary recall.

Manufacturers will work with the FDA or USDA to help determine the reason for the recall and to fix the issue. If foodborne illnesses have occurred, the CDC and state health departments will also be involved.

As consumers, it is important to pay attention to recalls to eliminate the chance of getting sick. Recall announcements give specific information about the food recall including the type of food, brand, package size, date codes, manufacturer codes, shelf life dates, distribution locations, and other pertinent information.

If you have a recalled food, take it back to where it was purchased for a refund, or throw it away. Do not take the chance of eating it or feeding it to animals.

Learn more at www.foodsafety.gov/recalls/index.html.

By:  Ashley Svaty

Now is a Great Time to Design Your Landscape

You might not be thinking about your yard in the middle of winter, but January is a great time to design your landscape! Take some time to draw out your existing flower beds, trees, and shrubs. Then decide what you would like to change or add. K-State Research and Extension has some great resource to help with the planning process.

Information on plants recommended for Kansas can be found at: http://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/recommended-plants/index.html

Follow this link for publications on landscaping in Kansas: https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/publications/landscaping.html

By: Cassie Homan

Caring for Yourself to Care for Others

Taking care of yourself makes it easier to care, share, and connect with your partner and your family. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid accusatory statements so the listener is more willing to respond positively.
  • To feel good and have more energy for family activities, make healthier choices about what to eat. Try to eat more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables and fewer foods with sugar listed as one of the first three ingredients.
  • Use humor to lighten the mood during challenging times. Humor can help manage stress and ease tension for you and those around you.
  • Think positively about your life to improve both your well-being and your relationships. Try to view roadblocks as opportunities to learn and be optimistic about the future.
  • For more tips to help improve your self-care, see the Caring for Yourself to Care for Others fact sheet at http://www.fcs.uga.edu/docs/01_CFS-F2.pdf

By:  Nora Rhoades