Social Issues

Explore the art of companion planting and learn how to create a vibrant and harmonious garden using natural methods. From nurturing soil health to enhancing flavors and controlling pests, pairing certain plants together can give you multiple benefits while cutting down on your labor and the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Discover how to get started, and enjoy five recipes that use companion plants, reuniting them on your plate.

In a recent study, researchers compared the amount of meat and other animal products in subjects’ diets with the environmental impact of their food choices. Find out why plant-based diets have such a smaller impact on land, water, and other sustainability measures. And what the global impact could be of choosing to eat less meat.

Carnivore diets have moved from the extreme fringe into increasing prominence in parts of the nutrition and wellness world. These zero-carb diets contradict pretty much every mainstream nutritional theory. Yet their proponents claim an impressive and comprehensive array of benefits, from weight loss to remission of autoimmune disease to improved psychological health. So what does science say about the pros and cons of living almost exclusively on meat?

If you don’t have a solid plan to use up produce or know how to properly store it, your vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful fruits and veggies can quickly transform into mush. And wasted food is wasted time, money, and resources. It can also put a wrench in your meal plans. And it has a detrimental impact on the planet. This article and video provide tips on how to extend the shelf life of, and use up, fruits, veggies, and herbs in a variety of culinary applications to avoid waste and get the most out of your food.

Why are so many people talking about bone broth? Let’s explore why health enthusiasts seem to be jumping on the bandwagon, what the research says about some of the most prominent bone broth benefits and claims, and the potential downsides of participating in this popular food trend.

Soil, like water and other natural resources, isn’t forever. Get insight into why it’s so important to preserve soil biodiversity, what’s currently threatening soil health, and what’s being done to increase biodiversity and regenerate soil.

Eczema is a common skin disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the causes and effective treatments for eczema remain elusive. So why do people develop the condition in the first place? What triggers symptoms? How can flares be prevented? And might a plant-based diet provide relief for eczema sufferers?

Juicing fruits and vegetables involves separating the stuff you consume — the juice — from everything else — the pulp. That can make it easy to get lots of plant-based nutrients into your body, but it also involves a lot of food waste and can keep you from getting enough fiber in your diet. So are there ways to reuse juicer pulp that can solve both problems?

Papaya is a tropical fruit with significant culinary versatility and nutritional benefits — and considerable global popularity. But is it good for you? And if so, which varieties are best for your health and the environment? And are there people who should avoid papayas entirely? Let’s take a deep dive into one of the world’s favorite tropical fruits.

Scientists created polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to make our lives easier. But in the process, they’ve created “forever chemicals” that are contaminating our soil, water, and bodies. Find out how scientists at Michigan State University are working on removing PFAS from our environment and food supply.

One strategy recommended for people struggling to control their weight has been portion control: intentionally eating less than they otherwise would. To help people eat less, government and nutritional experts have identified serving and portion sizes to aim for. But what’s the difference between a serving and a portion? How can you use these guidelines to eat enough but not too much? And what other strategies work best to prevent overeating?

Food insecurity is a problem that touches many communities, but some more than others. In this article, we explore how the LGBTQ+ community is disproportionately affected by food insecurity, the organizations that are leading the charge to support food access, and how you can help make a difference in fighting for healthy, ethical, and sustainable food for all.