This Week’s Topic: Urban Gardening For Dummies

ANXIETY: SERIOUS CONDITION

You ever thought you had an explosive- gastrointestinal parasite from something you ate and you was about to die? All signs were there. But, it was all in your head. So, I was sick right? I just ate the best salad ever. I mean I eat salad everyday. I’m fine right? Wrong. Soon as the lettuce recall headline hit, just the thought that I could have possibly ate it, I’m violently ill. Serious condition. I had every symptom: runny nose, upset stomach, all that bad shit (“Relp Raggy” Scooby-Doo) Well, turns out I did not have the parasite (punching the air) because I don’t even eat iceberg lettuce in my salad at all. My husband says my body is dramatic. Whatevs. My bad.

THE RECALL

Recently, federal investigators linked a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora, a parasite that can cause severe diarrhea, to certain recalled iceberg lettuce products from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The recall included specific bagged iceberg and shredded lettuce products sold at some retailers and supplied to restaurants, not all lettuce.

GARDENING & ANXIETY

How Gardening Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Gardening slows you down and soothes anxiety involuntarily. People have no clue that the digging, watering, and caring for plants encourages mindfulness and gives your brain a break from constant worry. Watching something grow reminds you that good things take time. My family loves it.

STAYING WELL

Stay Informed, Not Obsessed
Follow recall notices from trusted sources like the FDA or your local health department instead of relying on social media rumors.

Buy Local When Possible
Visit farmers markets, join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), or buy from local growers. Shorter supply chains can make it easier to know where your food comes from. (Farmers Markets)

FOOD SAFETY

Grow Some of Your Own Food
Even a few pots of lettuce, herbs, tomatoes, and green onions give you more control over what you eat. There's no fresher farm-to-table than your own garden.

Handle Food Safely
Wash fruits and vegetables under running water, keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate, refrigerate perishables promptly, and follow food safety guidelines. Washing helps remove dirt and some germs, but it doesn't eliminate every possible contaminant. (Peel the skin, that’s most likely the culprit)

HOW-TO-GUIDE

Three Easy Steps to Start

1. Start small: Use a pot, raised bed, or container with quality soil.

2. Choose beginner plants: Lettuce, basil, tomatoes, green onions, spinach, or peppers are good starting points.

3. Give them sunlight and water: Most vegetables need 6–8 hours of sunlight and consistent watering.

BUILDING BLOCKS

Eat a Variety of Foods
Don't let one recall convince you to avoid an entire food group. A varied diet supports better nutrition and reduces the impact if one specific product is recalled. You can't eliminate every risk in life, but you can reduce unnecessary ones. Don't let fear choose your meals. Let knowledge, preparation, and common sense guide your decisions. The goal isn't perfect safety, it's making informed choices while continuing to nourish yourself and your family. It’s worth it.

PROMOTIONS

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Thanks for your support.

FCKTHAT

Enjoy your weekend. Thanks for reading. Start your garden, taste the difference.

Catch you next Friday!

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