MAKE EVERY DAY DELICIOUS

The Network for a Healthy California’s Fruit and Veggie Fest Celebrates the Flavor of Fruits and Vegetables

The Network for a Healthy California (Network) and Northgate Market hosted the annual Fruit and Veggie Fest in El Monte to celebrate the delicious flavors of fruits and vegetables and encourage Californians to eat healthy every day.  Throughout the month of May, retailers across that state are hosting Fruit and Veggie Fest events and promotions to inspire shoppers with healthy tips and recipes that include plenty of fresh, frozen, dried, and canned produce.

From corner stores to supermarket chains, retail partnerships and in-store activities like the Network’s Fruit and Veggie Fest are critical in the battle against the obesity epidemic, particularly among low-income Californians who are at greater risk. Surveys show that retail promotions can have a positive impact on how shoppers spend their food dollars and CalFresh benefits.

“Good health begins in the shopping cart with the foods we buy for our families. Better choices in the store can lead to healthy habits at home, like making half of every plate fruits and vegetables,” said Lourdes Acosta, Network
for a Healthy California-Los Angeles Region Retail Specialist. “You can also increase how much healthy food your family eats by preparing healthy meals
that also taste great.”

The Network for a Healthy California, Northgate Market and El Monte City School District received a Certificate of Recognition from State of California Senate for their efforts towards a healthier San Gabriel Valley presented by California State Senator Dr. Ed Hernandez who was in attendance.  California State Assemblymember Mike Eng office representative also presented a Certificate of Recognition for the commitment to promoting healthy eating habits.  City of El Monte Mayor Pro Tem “J”
Gomez and City Council Member Victoria Martinez were also in attendance to present a Certificate of Recognition from the City of El Monte for the work promoting a healthier lifestyle for all members of the community.

Through Fruit and Veggie Fest in-store activities at Northgate Market, shoppers tasted and sampled nutritious
and delicious recipes from the Network’s new “Flavors of My Kitchen” cookbook, which features healthy twists on traditional Latino dishes as well as many new culturally-inspired meals.  Shoppers took part in other healthy living activities and received free copies of the “Flavors of My
Kitchen” cookbook.

“Fruit and Veggie Fest helps shoppers discover that nutritious is also delicious,” said Lourdes Acosta. “Steamed, sautéed, grilled or raw, everyone can find ways to make healthy eating taste great.”

Californians can continue to enjoy Fruit and Veggie Fest by “Liking” the Network on Facebook to receive more great tips and recipes from celebrity chefs and Champions for Change, every day moms and dads from across California who are making healthy changes for their families and in their communities. Visitors also are encouraged to post comments, photos and videos of how they are joining
the movement to make every day delicious.

For more information, visit cachampionsforchange.net or Facebook.com/networkforahealthycalifornia.