Alisa Fleming, Go Dairy Free ~ As reported earlier this week, Natural Products Expo West 2008 was abuzz with new-to-market superfoods. Yet one in particular has garnered a great deal of curiosity for its nutritional merit, incredible versatility, and unique modern history. Decades ago I recall sitting in front of the TV, listening to ch-ch-ch-chia pet jingle that still rings clearly in my head.  In the 70’s that little wonder plant captured the attention of millions, but now it is the seeds that we are enthralled with … and for good reason ...

Bigger and reportedly better than ever, Expo West 2008 was bursting at the seems this year with over 52,000 visitors (an increase of 11% over the prior year) vying for a look at the latest natural food, health, and personal care offerings from roughly 3400 exhibitors. Yes, reportedly … I couldn’t make it this year.  But, news is spreading quickly about emerging (or continuing) trends that dominated the show.  It sounds like this year we can expect to see many more options in the following categories:

In April, three Go Dairy Free viewers will receive a $25 gift certificate to shop online at The Vegetarian Site.  Available to shoppers worldwide, The Vegetarian Site offers vegan grocery items (such as MimicCreme, Parma Vegan Parmesan, and Sjaak’s Organic Chocolate), personal care, vitamins, cookbooks, small appliances (yes, ice cream makers too!), clothing, and more.  Aside from the wide selection, The Vegetarian Site offers a few other great perks.  Within the U.S. they offer $5 flat rate shipping on all orders, and 10% of every purchase, not simply the profit, is donated to a nonprofit organization every month. To enter to win ...

Like millions of people around the world, I had to remove a food from my diet for health reasons.  My nemesis is milk, or all dairy products if you will.  While many situations have been quite easy to handle, with a seamless transition, brunch has proven time and time again to be the most challenging meal. Simple at-home breakfast is easy, but when sharing meals with others, brunch hides a myriad of threatening ingredients for many free-from dieters ...

By Alisa Fleming - While most conventional dyes are boasted as non-toxic, many food-grade, FDA approved dyes are made with toxins such as coal, tar, and other petroleum based products.  For those with sensitivities this can be a huge issue ... and for those who have just gone out of their way to purchase only organic eggs for their family, these harsh dyes can be an eco-friendly buzz kill.  Luckily, the earth-kind people at Pangea Organics have enlightened us with easy, natural, edible dyes that will leave your eggs with brilliant Easter hues while easing your mind about what might be entering your children’s mouths…