After this interminable weekend of never-ending snow, there are still so many loose ends of information. Here are some thoughts to ponder and facts to know.

With the renewed scare and emphasis on BPA and the continual cry that plastic bottles harm our environment, there is some good news. Several bottled waters now use less plastic than they did even a few years ago. Dasani from Coke is testing a bottle made from more plant materials, and Aquafina (Pepsi) has dropped its plastic use by over 50% in the past 8 years. The same is true for the popular eco-shaped holder bottle from Nestle which has reduced its plastic content by 1/4 since it was originally launched in ‘07. Less is good.

If you’ve been wondering how healthy hot chocolate is as you’ve been consuming it with great relish during this especially cold winter, there’s good news. Nestle celebrates the Groundhog’s prediction of 6 continuing weeks of winter by introducing four new flavors of hot chocolate that have less sugar and are supplemented with nutrients. Hot chocolate drinks: No problem.

Fish oil again makes headlines with the newest study from Austria pointing out its potential in staving off schizophrenia in young people who already exhibit a degree of mental illness. Researchers believe that the fatty acids in fish oil help repair brain cells. This type of report hopefully will encourage other mental health researchers to examine the potential benefits from fish oil, a product that has made heart-healthy headlines for years!

Another hopeful glimmer of health news comes from a study of acai berries. The study shows that this berry, which has made major beverage inroads, will lessen some signs of aging and counteract many of the detrimental factors from high amounts of fats in our diets.

As we continue to search out more organic products, a disturbing report from the USDA found that fewer than 1 percent of all American farms are organic. An initial roadblock for many farmers is the necessary certification procedures, costs, and requirements of converting the land to certified organic. Hopefully, there is money in the Ag Dept budget to increase the number of farms to meet the growing interest as this small percentage manages to generate over $3 billion in sales. That certainly demonstrates support! Consumers feel confident with organic foods.

Good news for restaurants with the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday. Several market research studies found that restaurants will benefit from the double positive: The holiday falls on a Sunday and is part of a three-day weekend. Let me add another factor: Cabin Fever. The East Coast has been hit by multiple weekend snow storms that have shut down many restaurants and made major roads impassable. Let’s celebrate next weekend as a dining out event! Reservations now.

Besides restaurants coaxing you out for V-Day, there are no shortage of new chocolate products to sweeten the deal. Don’t forget a sparkler or go for a true Champagne. Plenty of choices. Grocers are actively pursuing those who prefer the quiet luxury of a special home-cooked meal. They can meet you halfway by their large selection of prepared foods to help you lessen your kitchen time.

Eat healthy; dine well.

Dig out.

Tags: restaurants