COFFEE: OH, HOW WE LOVE IT

Coffee is pretty much a staple across many countries and many cultures: and has been for many years. Coffee has a slew of health benefits ranging from strengthening the liver to improving appetite. That said, coffee maintains these wonderful health benefits when taken in its most natural and pure state: black.

Over the decades, we have made it habitual to add milk and a sweetner (of the sort) to our coffee. Some like a lot of milk; some like a lot of sweetner. Some like a little of both. Some prefer one over the other. And the preferences go on and on. And, why not? It is the that energy-filled and potent--yet beautiful--warm beverage that many of us look forward to at any time of the day, during any season of the year.

So what's the issue? As previously mentioned, coffee is best for body's health when it is taken in its pure form: without any additives of the sort. By adding milk and a sweetner, the benefits of coffee reduce significantly. Coffee is such a pure, and delightfully healthy beverage by itself. In this day and age, neither milk nor sweetners are what they "used" to be. Milks, across the board, are coming in contact with a slew of chemicals: cow's milk being at the top of the list. White or brown sugar (sweetner) is not generally good for the body and changes the nutritional make-up of coffee when contact is made, naturally. And many tend to drink coffee with milk and a sweetner a least once or twice a day.

My dear friends, we ask of you: consider taking your coffee black.

For some people, the idea of black coffee is a "no fun" and not even something worth consuming. Those that have been relishing coffee with additives usually have a strong desire to continue drinking it in this way. And nothing wrong with that (so long as it is not empty indulgence).

However, consider this small, yet tiny change. The coffee bean was given to us by Mother Earth as a beautiful gift of purity. Let us try to maintain that by drinking the coffee black: no additives. Maybe for at least once or twice a week.

You will be happy you did so. Not only for the health benefits, but also because it allows you to "connect" to the Earth in a unique way. Foods from the Earth tend to have that amazing affect on an individual when they are consumed in a natural and pure state.

Let us get back to a more natural consumption of coffee. Let us aspire to make some small changes in our lives. Let us open our eyes, receptively, to a new way of appreciation for coffee.

Oh, how we love that sacred and holy coffee...

Yet black coffee, this is the project: CLEAN FOOD way...

DRINK LIQUIDS OUT OF A GLASS JAR: THE project: CLEAN FOOD WAY

When people buy a freshly blended juice in the market or juice bar, it is "normal" to have a pure and untainted liquid placed in a plastic cup: all for our consumption. And we here at project: CLEAN FOOD are not advocates of drinking any beverages out of plastic.

So here is an easy solution: buy your very own Mason Jar (sometimes referred to as a Ball Jar).


They come in a variety of sizes and can cost anywhere between $1 - $4 at your friendly neighborhood hardware store. You can also find them online easily in bulk.

Those of you that are familiar with these jars, you and your family have probably used them to store foods and beverages of the sort. In general, people use them not only for foods and beverages, but also to create and store various preservatives and herbal concoctions.

So, we say, why not get a one that suits you (size wise). Use it to carry your water or even to hold your freshly blended juice made at home or bought in the store. If buying in the store, just politely ask the person at the juice counter to "fill-her-up." The jars have measurements on the sides: really easy to measure, so no complicatons at all.

And on that note, get to it! Say no to plastic. Just because we are given something in our lives, it does not mean we have to use and accept it: plastic has chemicals. So be mindful...

Drink a Clean Liquid: the project: CLEAN FOOD way...
~~~~~~~~~

Here is our little write-up on plastic and food in case you missed it:
http://projectcleanfood.blogspot.com/2011/05/plastics-and-your-food.html

PICKING YOUR PRODUCE--101

Many people tend to stray away from wonderful fruits and vegetables in the market because of doubts about being able to pick the "right one." Some are especially hesitant if they have never eaten or been exposed to the fruit or vegetable. So, us shoppers unfortantely leave the knowledge of choosing produce to the farmers, purveyors and chefs (a.k.a. moms, dads, grandparents, friends, etc). But we here at project: CLEAN FOOD want you to jump in on the fun and learn how to pick your produce.

We can't really "teach" you, but we can give you some tips. Everyone has their little tips and tricks for picking their produce. The best tip we can give you: use your intuition. Let your produce speak to you!

Learn how to observe various breeds and species of the produce. Take note of smells of fresh and poor quality produce. Take notice of really young or unripe produce vs. ripe ones. Also, try and remember the taste of certain fruits and vegetables; then associate that with your observations made previously about the produce. In essence, you become a little "produce picking scientist" while in the market; and that is how you can connect deeply with the produce. Besides, its very fun and engaging once you get into the rhythm of it all.

There is nothing wrong with a little trial and error. After a couple rounds of picking and choosing your own produce, you won't feel the need to buy any pre-packed salads of the sort. You will take extreme joy in putting together your own creation. It is truly an amazing feeling to watch your meal come together from the market to the moment of consumption!

Allow yourself to connect deeply with your produce. The Cleanest Food is the one chosen by your own beautiful hands. Trust that you have the power to make these choices with any and all produce. Let your hands guide you.
Let your intuition lead you.

Let your plate be filled with Clean Food...

USE YOUR VOICE: TELL THE MARKETS THAT YOU CARE

There have been many days where we as people have not been satisfied with the environmental conditions within the local market or grocer. And some of us have spoken up about these things. But unfortunately, many individuals decide to keep quiet about their opinions: either waiting for the next person to speak up or appropriating responsibility to the purveyors and markets themselves. It is usually these same people that have a slight tendency to complain about the market: either to themselves or to others that frequent these places. Well my friends, we here at project: CLEAN FOOD want you to use and express that beautiful voice of yours at all times. It is time to consider caring more about the food products, as well as its handling and its presentation.

We have all been in the market and seen, at some point, mold and fungus growing on fruits and vegetables, expired foods of the sort and a great deal of other things that leave a deep-seated worry and concern for the products. By speaking up to the customer service representatives or floor maangers, it not only makes them take responsibility for the store's products, but it also lets them know that you are a frequent shopper and care deeply about these sort of things. Use this technique to not only make markets aware of old and expired food, but also for unethical pricing, poor presentation of goods, cleanliness, store hygiene and anything else that could potentially raise concerns in your heart.

Speak to your fellow brothers and sisters at the marketplace with compassion. Let them know your concerns. Speak to them with a kind heart and a soft voice. By approaching them from a place of love, care and understanding for the food products (as well as for other consumers), they will hear your voice and your concerns.

Let us together look out for one another by helping and sharing information that can better our environments on a whole. The market will appreciate this immediately. Constructive criticisms on a whole can be potentially difficult for many people to give or receive: but we must be receptive. This is how we grow as a people. This is how we grow here on planet Earth.

Care more. Care deeply. Speak strongly. Speak lovingly. Let your voice be heard.

Then...

Eat Clean Food.

CLEAN MEAN GREENS: project CLEAN FOOD'S "MAGIC GREEN JUICE"

We all have been making some strong efforts to eat cleaner foods these days. When the knowledge about various foods and products starts to rattle our brains and open our eyes, we have no other option than to reflect on the choices we make on a daily basis.

That said, everyone--at some point--thinks about making stronger efforts to incorporate more leafy green vegetables into their diets. And we here at project: CLEAN FOOD recognize that. We also know how hard it is to incorporate these leafy greens into our diets on a daily basis. There are so many choices, ya? So what better way to get a chunk nutrients into the system than by drinking a nice, super green, fresh juice!

Here is our little Magic Green Juice Recipe. Try it out and see if you like it.
Either buy it at your local health food store or juice bar, or make it at home in your own juicer!

And here it is:

--Collard Greens
--Kale
--Spinach
--Chard
--Dandelion Root
--Parsley
--Cucumber

For those of you making this at home, cucumber will be about one quarter to a half of the juice; half a cucumber yields a lot of liquid (naturally distilled water is in the cucumber). The rest of the juice will be a strong balanced mixture of the other greens. Use your judgement: we trust you.

By drinking this once a day for at least 3 days a week, the body's digestion will not only strengthen, but also many ailments and sicknesses can potentially fall by the way side.

We believe that this sort of green juice is more pure, fresh and clean than anything you could ever buy that was pre-made: and even more powerful than a juice made with a powder. This here is the real deal. Be forwarned, this will be somewhat bitter for some of you.

As we move through various changes in our lives, it is possible to go through a similar type of "bitterness." The bitterness that we taste here is just our initial hesitation to change and growth.

We ask that you be open and receptive to the Magic Green Juice. Invite into your lives and this new day, something that could bring a change for the better: something that could potentially introduce you to a new way of living: a new way of thinking.

To eat in a clean way, everyday, is a project in and of itself.
So that is why we are here: we support clean eating and living, here on this Earth.

And more importantly, we support you.

Eat Clean Food...

TWO CLEAN MEALS FOR TOMORROW: THE "project: CLEAN FOOD WAY"

All this "healthy eating stuff" can be a bit overwhelming at times: we get it. So most of us just try and do what we can, with regard to eating foods from the Earth in its most natural and pure state, right?

So, we here at project: CLEAN FOOD have decided to craft out a little menu for your day tomorrow! You can use it to not only maintain a radiantly healthy eating regimen in the day, but also worry less about what to eat and all the tidbits that come with meal planning: ease back and relax, we got your back!

So here we go:

Breakfast
This should be eaten somewhere between 7am - 11am

--A Nice Light Fruit Mix(raspberries, blackberries, 2 kiwis, a whole avocado)
--Oatmeal** in Water with Cinnamon and maple syrup or honey (avoid sugar)
--1/2 Cup of Walnuts and Raisins (two hand fulls)
--16oz Pure Spring Water, purified or ionized water

**Oatmeal is just an option in case the fruit alone is not enough

***WAIT ABOUT 7-8 HOURS BEFORE YOUR NEXT MEAL***

Snack Option
If you don't think you can make it, try ONE of the following:
-Drink one liter of water (32oz).
-Eat another couple hand fulls of walnuts, raisins and maybe some almonds
-Drink a nice refreshing smoothie or freshly blended juice (your choice!)

Dinner
This should be eaten somewhere between 3pm - 8pm

-Some sort of grain (quinoa, amaranth, cous-cous, brown rice)
-A small green salad (go light on dressings, but have fun!)
-A vegetable (chickpeas, lentils, squash, pumpkin, okra, etc)
-A small dessert that is light on digestion, if you like (your choice)
-16oz or more of water

**This dinner is just an option. It may not appeal to everyone. Some will be quite contented with just a big salad, some may not need the grain or the dessert. Some could just have a big smoothie and a soup. Some may not even be hungry.

Follow your intuition. When you give that much space between meals, you may think you are a lot hungrier than you really are; so use your discretion. The purpose of this little regimen is to feel lighter throughout your day. We think that this little menu could help out with that.

So print it out, stick it in your pocket, in your bag, on your refrigerator or at your desk: and you are all set.

If there is anything on this menu that you may be unaware of, feel free to look it up.

project: CLEAN FOOD wants to share information about the Earth's food with the hopes of learning together as one community. Together we are strong and a powerful wave of knowledge for the future.

Let's make it a project to eat clean food tomorrow!

Have Fun!!

IN THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION, TWAS CHOCOLATE THAT WAS SENT FORTH...

Deep into the jungles of La Isla de Hispañiola in the Dominican Republic, passionate workers eagerly find their way to the beautiful flowering cocoa plants. These beans are then wrapped securely in banana leaves and brought, by mule, back to the village of "Cocoa Scientists." For many years, these people have been cultivating the Cocoa Bean with love, devotion and care for the entire process. Some makers and purveyors of Chocolate have forgotten about these beautiful processes of bringing the Cocoa Bean from the pod to the consumer. Aye, but not completely forgotten.

project: CLEAN FOOD presents to you the amazing, the incomporable,
Taza Chocolate: Oh, My... (http://www.tazachocolate.com/).

We here at project: CLEAN FOOD are very big on Chocolate. That said, we go out of our way to try many Chocolates of the sort out there in the marketplace. Our goal: we wanted to find an organic product that was the cleanest, healthiest, yummiest, and most powerful chocolate out there. And after many efforts, our search ended. Finding our ultimate, Taza Chocolate left us satiated and extremely happy.

The taste is so fresh, clean, and pure: utterly flawless. We tried the 80% Stone Ground Chocolate Bar. What started as a small taste test among friends ended up as a Chocolate party that left everyone "high" and craving nothing else but that yummy Taza goodness alone. The sweetness is not overbearing. And our favorite part: dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free. In the ingredients: no sneaky terminology you have to google or look-up. And if you are a Chocolate dork (like we are), they give you the batch number of the product to look up on their website so you can check out all the details regarding that particular batch of Chocolate: cool, ya?

Tis true, Chocolate is the "Food of the Gods." And we say, you might as well have the best of the best!

Check out their website and their recipes. Find them on facebook. And, of course, eat the chocolate.You can find it at most markets that sell organic products.

Eat and enjoy with love. It is very possible to experience what we experienced.
Because Taza Chocolate is definitely project: CLEAN FOOD approved...


...are you eating Clean Food...

YUMMY MAPLE SYRUP IN THE "SUGAR BUSHES" OF UNION SQUARE, NYC

This weekend on a humid New York City saturday afternoon, we found ourselves trekking through the mountains of people to reach the destination:

Deep Mountain Maple! (http://deepmountainmaple.com/)

In the midst of the Union Square Green Market perched up somewhat in the middle, we found the most friendly faces and smiles representing some of the sweetest and tastiest syrup of Vermont at Deep Mountain's kiosk.

Deep Mountain's syrup is amazing! Their people were very patient with our barrage of questions regarding quality, grade, color, taste and process. To say they are knowledgeable is quite an understatement; it is no wonder this bustling station is providing all the visitors and syrup fanatics alike with an amazing experience. Great all around!

And of course, the syrup is coming straight from our dear Mother Nature's garden up in Vermont. The trees are treated ethically, with love and care; and you can taste it in their unrefined and pesticide free, 100% Pure Maple Syrup!

While nibbling on their maple syrup candies, we purchased the Grade A Dark Amber; we overheard someone say that you can use it with everything from salads to fruit. And, of course,let's not forget on Pancakes and French Toast! We are very excited about that: YUM. We might just eat it right out of the mason jar it came in with a spoon!

Check out Deep Mountain Maple's kiosk next weekend at the Union Square Greenmarket!

Amazing People. Amazing Maple Syrup. Amazing Day.

Now, that's Clean Food...

ORGANIC FOOD AT THE FARMER'S MARKET: GO OUT AND SUPPORT

The weekends are usually a great time to pay a visit to your local farmer's markets. Here is a great little resource for scouring out a local farmer's market near you:

http://apps.ams.usda.gov/FarmersMarkets/Default.aspx

Since we are based here in New York City, project: Clean Food proudly avocates the Union Square Green Market; if you don't know already, check out the beautiful Union Square Green Market this weekend here in NYC:

http://www.grownyc.org/unionsquaregreenmarket

To visit a Farmer's Market is a great way to not only buy seasonal foods and produce, but also a great way to connect to local farmers and growers about the nature of the food that peaks your interest. These people love what they do and are very knowledgeable about their products; so feel free to pick their brains as you shop!

Have a great weekend!

And as always, feel free to comment about your experiences below!

Have fun and make it a Clean Food weekend...

TRASH THE FOOD-BASED MEAL POWDERS: JUST EAT THE FOOD

In this day and age, a lot of people are using these "superfood" and "nutrient-rich" meal powders: and it is very easy to see why. One tablespoon of the powder in water or some other beverage, consumed twice a day, can potentially give the body everything it needs and could ever want for a day's worth of nutrients. Right? Or are people consuming them because they are quick, easy and one less thing to think about? Well, whatever the reason may be, one should just abandon the powders and eat the food.

The powders are making a strong and stalwart attempt at recreating a
"superfood" with all the nutritious benefit. These powders are claiming to have a mixture of various fruits, vegetables, roots, herbs, healthy fungus', powerful sea algaes and a slew of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in one tablespoon. As an average consumer, one would see this and be marvelled; the fact that one does not have to go out of their way to consume all these various things in order to maintain or bring the body to a state of health can be deemed a sort of a wonderment.

Here is the problem: an individual usually does not consider if the ingredients in a particular powder are suitable for that person's body. Someone can potentially react negatively to a powder and not necessarily know it (ex.constipation). But more importantly, nature is ruled by laws. There is an order to everything that comes from this Earth. How does one know whether this "superfood" still actually holds all of the potency after the form and structures are changed physcially, subtley and chemcially? And is there an adverse effect by consuming these powders with a possibly altered (and mutated) structure? We don't really know do we? Also, many of these powders have various names, words and terms that many consumers are not familiar with and most people never take the time to check them out. So, check them out! What are fatty alcohols? What are non-dairy probiotic cultures? And how can enzymes of the Earth's food be reduced to a powder form at the hands of a human in a lab? Why are these things even in the powder? Is this a sort of 'food engineering'? Ask questions. Get answers.

Be a better than average consumer. Don't just buy the powder because someone you know told you about it. We are in the age where people have the internet attached to their hips: google the information before purchasing. And if you are still curious, consume the powder, but notice the effects on the body as a whole: not just an intial feeling or reaction (possibly associated with the mind). At the end of the day, the Earth has all the superfoods the body could ever need or require. Take the time and make your own smoothies, juices and meals, and without the powders. These things are made in labs without 100% consideration of every blood and body type here on planet Earth. It might not be designed for your body.

So, eat the food. Whether you juice it, 'smoothie it', cook it, steam it or eat it raw, let your stomach and the rest of your body be the "chemistry lab" where beautiful creations are made and had.

Get rid of the powders. Mother nature has provided abundantly for you and your family.

Eat Clean Food...

WANT TO EAT MORE ORGANIC FOODS? START YOUR OWN MINI-GARDEN AT HOME

Some of us are very fortunate to have enough garden space to create some little rows of fruits and vegetables to sow and reap for the family. Even more fortunate is the one that has a farm for the family. For a majority of everyone else, its off to the local market or health food store. While this is an ideal situation for many people, there is something very magical about starting your own garden or creating your own farm from which you and your family will eat.

That said, even if you don't have enough space where you live to start a whole garden, consider planting some small home grown herbs, fruits or vegetables. The more sunlight a room or window can receive, the more likely you are to have some good crop to eat from. One little plant pot: thats all. Its a great way to start. Eventually, you will be filled with excitement to plant more and more; thereby creating space in your world to become a little, mini-farmer admist the overwhelming demands of the world.

Not only will you start to have your very own little organic garden, but it is also a great way to reconnect to this lovely planet Earth. We are so quick to run to the store to buy a bag of fresh organic spinach or a pack of rosemary seasoning for our meals. But imagine this: walking over to your garden, speaking to your beautiful plants and letting them tell you which part of its leaves are ever so perfect for the meal you are preparing for your friends or family. Just imagine...

I'm no farmer: neither do I have a major garden at home. There is a value though in being able to watch nature come to life in your very own living quarters. Not only will the air quality and state of being in your home improve, but you will also become the co-creator of your very own organic garden, if you so choose, by the grace of our Mother Earth. Now how amazing is that?

Home gardens are amazing and easy to maintain. Do research on the internet and check out your local hardware store or florist for some seeds and other goodies.

If anyone has any good info or gardening tips, please post in the comments below. It will be much appreciated!

Now, that's Clean Food...

BEAUTIFULLY MARKETED 'HEALTHY FOOD' RECALLED: ANOTHER REASON TO EAT FROM THE EARTH

In this day and age, many families are working long and hard hours with very little time to prepare an adequate dinner for everyone. Although it is hard and a bit frustrating at times, families must fight to make the time. It is not only important, but also a must.

We can no longer put our trust in these major companies that are boasting a "healthy dinner." Cook your own food. Prepare your own meals. Families and friends must work in teams. One person does not have to bear the burden. Together, we must obey the mandates set for by our dear Mother Earth and eat directly from the Earth: not from a freezer or from some company that will not consider our health.

Open your eyes. Eat electric foods. Do not eat things made by a company in their potentially chemical-ridden kitchens. Only you can truly know what is good for your friends and family.

See what this major "healthy food corporation" is feeding us:

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jun/08/natural-foods-maker-kashi-recalls-select-pizza-pro/

BUYER BEWARE: SOME MARKETS ARE REFRIGERATING ORGANIC MANGOES

During a walk in a particular market one day, it was realized that some of these organic mangoes were extremely cold. Upon asking the associate as to why, he indicated that they have to put them in the refrigerator overnight to "preserve" them and lengthen the shelf life. And upon inquiring further, he said that they order a lot as a means to keep up with the demand in the market; so they have to make sure they don't spoil or go bad.

My fellow consumers, mangoes do not belong in the refrigerator. Upon placing mangoes in the refrigerator, the nutritional quality of the fruit changes. Rapid temperature changes of a fruit from hot to cold to hot to cold can take a great toll on the true nature of the fruit. It can subject it to rapid spoilage, rotting, and, worse, dilapidated nutritional value. If the nutritional quality of a fruit is altered, the original vitamins and minerals can become modified or mutated upon entering your system.

In a place where mangoes are grown and eaten in that environment, they never refrigerate the fruit: either it is eaten, juiced, sold or given away before it spoils. A market that puts dollars and cents before your health and satisfaction may not be a place you would want to shop...

Be aware of the fruits you buy. Ask questions to appease your curiousity.
And if the answers are not satisfactory,then that place may not be for you...

Everyone should be eating Clean Food...
Make your best effort; you're worth it...

WHERE DO YOU BUY YOUR FRUITS AND VEGETABLES? CLEAN FOOD WOULD LOVE TO KNOW

Everyone has a "special place" to buy their fruits and vegetables. Sometimes this place is not necessarily in the same place they buy all their other groceries.
So, we here at project: CLEAN FOOD are curious...

Whether it be a supermarket, health food store, small purveyor, a local farm or a vendor on the street corner. Tell us where you get your goods and why you like going there!

We will compile a list--as a resource--for all people across the world. So for example, it would look something like this:

*ABCD-123 HEALTH FOOD MARKET, (New York, NY)

"I love this place...they have the most fresh Kale and Parsely ever!! I don't shop anywhere else!" ~John, from Queens,NY

There is no criteria or requirement for your special place to make the list. Your word and voice alone is the most invaluable and impactful for everyone! So use this as a moment to bring light to your fellow consumers and share your beautiful experiences!

Feel free to leave a comment with the info here on this blog or email us: ProjectCleanFood@Gmail.com

We're very excited to hear from you!

Where do you shop for Clean Food...

CLEAN FOOD'S TOP 45 FOODS AND BEVERAGES THAT ARE TOXIC TO THE BODY

Here are some of the most inadequate foods and beverages out there on the market. These particular foods and beverages listed below potentially slow down, not only, the entire digestive processes, but also can put a strain on the functions of the Liver. Many of these foods cause your body to produce more acids in the entire system as a whole. If you are a regular consumer of any of these foods and beverages, use this as a moment to be receptive and open to new information; and also as a moment to receive some light on all that is being shared. Here is the list (in no particular order):

--All carbonated beverages (soda, etc)
--All alcoholic beverages
--All pre-made boxed or bottled beverages
--Water sold in plastic bottles (and some glass bottles)
--Tap Water
--Ice Cold Water
--Coffee*
--Soy milk
--Dairy products**
--Milk Chocolate
--Bread (all sorts)*
--Boxed Cereals
--Hot Sauces/Hot Pepper
--Processed Sugars
--Jellies and Jams
--Frozen foods
--All Animal Meat
--Rice*
--Potato*
--Cashews*
--Peanuts
--Pistachios
--Roasted nuts and seeds
--Salted nuts and seeds
--Yams
--Broccoli
--Tomato
--Canned Goods
--Baked Goods
--Carrots*
--Cranberries
--Pickled Foods
--Tempeh
--Seitan
--Tofu
--TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)
--Corn
--Wheat-based products
--Flour-based products
--Fried foods
--Eggs
--Kidney beans
--Black beans
--Lima beans
--Rice Milk

The information gathered about these products are based on vast amounts of inner research. If a particular food or beverage is not on this list, it is for one of two reasons: (1) It is perfectly fine to consume, or (2) The product was never regarded.

Are you eating Clean Food...

~~~~~~~~

*These foods (with one asterisk) can--sometimes--be consumed in moderation if it aides a particular type of digestion or balancing of the system.

**Some animal milks can be used to balance out the body by reducing the acid content of the stomach during digestion. Usually, the milks in this case are consumed while warm (or room temperature), and never cold.

COW'S MILK: A THIN LINE BETWEEN LOVE, HATE AND PROPAGANDA

The days of a child are not usually far from one's memories. This body remembers a time when it would relish precious moments with chocolate drenched and sugar engrossed boxed cereals (with loads of milk). Also, there were many days with doughnuts, brownies or warm cookies and a 16oz glass of milk. Aye, those days as a growing boy and young man were greatly loved. And, for many, these types of experiences are still existing and vibrant: as they should, so long as there is enjoyment (not empty indulgence). Nevertheless, many would agree that the glass of milk was a staple: though sometimes in hot chocolate or coffee (and maybe even cheese, ice cream or yogurt) the fix was had.

For others, milk was a pain. There were bouts of digestive disorders, intolerance and allergies. Some still indulged in milk-based products amdist knowing of these things. Milk tends to have that affect on people. Dairy products are tantamount to many other products in this civilization: and understandably so. There are beautifully decorated aisles in the markets and stores for such products. Also, there are a gamut of advertisements and marketing campaigns on television and within other aspects of the media promoting the consumption of dairy products. And amdist all of this, people have their love and hate relationships with the nutritionally rich elixir of the cow's bosom.

The problem with cow's milk is not whether or not it is good for the human system: that is not what is being addressed here. The issue lay with the fact that one may not know where the cow's milk is coming from and how the milk is being obtained. There are many people that have their own farms, milk their own cows and even give away or sell their own milk. The cows are usually treated in a beautiful, loving and compassionate manner throughout the process. With the mass production of milk and other dairy products increasing by the moment, one has to sit back and think about the treatment of these animals throughout the process. Dairy products can be found all over the world: is every cow being treated in the beautiful, loving and compassionate manner?

It is unfortunate to think that we live in a time where distributors and purveyors of cow's milk have to say things in their campaigns like, "Obtained from Organic Grass-Fed Cows." Some of them are even saying that the cows are "happy." One would think this is the normal circumstance for all cows. But because it is not, companies (and farms) are using complicated terms and jargon to help sell their cow's milk over the vast ocean of milk out there: not to mention that you have to pay more money for cleaner and healthier milk. You would think that our dear Mother of the Earth would want us to consume her food in the most natural and unadulturated way.

There is a lot of misinformation and propaganda out there with regard to dairy products. Don't accept being misled. If you love milk, honor the consumption of it and the cow it comes from. Do research and ask questions:

--What does "Organic and Grass-Fed" mean?
--What does "Happy" mean as pertaining to cows and their milk?
--What else are cow's fed, besides grass?
--What allows milk to stay fresh for so long?
--Are there preservatives and chemicals in "Organic" and "Non-Organic" milk?
--Do poorly treated cows affect the energy, nutrition and vibration of the milk?
--What is the affect of cow's milk on the body regarding "Organic" vs. "Non-Organic"?

These are all questions one should know the answer to, prior to consumption.
The truth must be known without a doubt or queston.

At the end of the day, one should consider either watching a cow being milked or milking a cow themselves (with love and compassion) before drinking the milk. Because after getting the answers to some of the questions above, many would either do this or never drink cow's milk again. All food for thought...

If your concern rests with getting Vitamin D and Calcium, don't worry.
The cows get theirs from the sun, fresh grass and water. You can too...

Knowledge destroys ignorance. And Clean Food transcends all others...
Consume with understanding.

Eat and consume Clean Food...

YOUR OWN FRUIT OR VEGETABLE SALAD MIX TRUMPS ALL PRE-MADE ONES...

The idea of eating a fruit or vegetable salad pre-made by the local market is a good concept. It is quick and easy and usually very tasty. So whats the problem? Fruits and vegetables across the board are very, very sensitive to the one that handles them. So it easily absorbs the vibration of the preparer of the pre-made salad and the store itself. Wouldn't you rather it be your own vibration and energy infused with the produce before consumption?

Usually, the fruit or vegetable salad is sitting in a plastic container. When was it made? That information is not always available. Sometimes there is an expiration date on the salad. But the fact that it is sitting in plastic in the refrigerator should be the cause of some conern. Was there love while the fruits and vegetables were being handled and prepared for your consumption? Were the fruits and vegetables in the same area as other foods that you do not consume? Was the produce washed so much that some of the vitamin, nutrient and mineral content was reduced? And was the produce washed in an overly cold or hot temperature? Was the produce exposed to another environment contradictory to one you would expose them to prior to consumption (near cleaning products, etc.)? These are all questions that we may not have the immediate answer to.

So, the easy fix to the situation, take the time and make your own salad. Ensure that it is made with the love and care that you would provide for it. Handle the produce in the way you like without cause for concern or worry. Put the salad in a nice glass or steel (or any other non-plastic dish) and consume as you like and enjoy it.

It is important to care about these things. The fruits and vegetables are as sensitive as your internal organs. Remember, these things are going inside of your body and making a strong attempt to nourish your body and bring it to a state of radiant health. It is of the utmost importance to treat the fruits and vegetables as if we value them greatly.

A high level of sensitivity is required to keep anything in its natural and pure state. Make and eat your own fruit and vegetable salads. The body is worth the extra time that may be required to prepare the salad: just do it, don't even think about it.

This is Clean Food: very easy, very simple...

CLEAN FOOD'S TOP 17 FRUITS THAT SHOULD BE EATEN REGULARLY

Here are some fruits to consider incorporating into the diet on a weekly basis. It is not necessary to eat every fruit; just find about 1 to 4 that can be genuinely enjoyed and will make the body feel good. Eat them often. If there is a slight indecisiveness about which ones will be good for the body, give a couple of them a try.

Use your intuition and enjoy!

-Raspberries
-Blackberries
-Blueberries
-Aronia Berries
-Strawberries
-Mulberries (in moderation)
-Kiwi
-Mango
-Avocado
-Green Apple
-Figs
-Dates (with Pit only)
-Papaya
-Bananas (in moderation)
-Watermelon (with seeds only)
-Oranges
-Plums (in moderation)

*ALL FRUITS SHOULD BE ORGANIC (when possible)

**ALL FRUITS MUST BE FRESH AND NEVER FROZEN

***ALL FRUITS SHOULD BE BOUGHT AT A PLACE YOU LIKE AND TRUST

****If your favorite fruits are not on this list, it is only because (1) it is believed that they may not serve much nutritional value, (2) they were never regarded or (3) that they may be slightly acidic: all based on inner research of the food's effect on the body after consumption.

EAT FRUITS AND VEGETABLES WITHOUT REFRIGERATION...

The refrigerator and freezer (ice box) is a bit over 100 years old. And before that, what did we do? Where did we store food? How did we keep our foods "fresh?" Humans have been consuming foods of the sort for thousands of years; and without the refrigerator, the human being managed to nourish the body without any worry of the food perishing. So where does this great concern and doubt come from? And a more interesting question: why do we want to perserve and store food for long periods of time?

I think it is safe to say, before the incorporation of the refrigerator, humans ate food within a short period of time. They also probably bought less food in order to avoid vasts amounts of waste across the board. And in light of all this, the food was probably more fresh when bought in order to reserve the highest quality of goods for the consumers. If the food spoiled, it would force the retailer and the consumer to treat it as waste, naturally. So why the refrigerator? Most likely this invention paved the way for high levels of human food consumption; and also increased the amount of food that was being bought and sold. And one may ask, "Where's the problem?" The problem is that refrigeration of any product will change the actual chemical and genetic nature of any good. This holds especially true for fruits and vegeatables. Your fruits and vegetables are not meant to be in a state of "shock" where they "live" without light, and in the unnatural cold air of the refrigerator. How does this preserve the abundant purity of the Earth's fruits and vegetables? At a maximum, it may slow down the decaying process of the fruits and vegetables. Nevertheless, many fruits and vegetables would most probably mutate or die when the temperature is drastically reduced (or increased for that matter).

SOLUTION

Leave all of the fruits and vegetables outside of the refrigerator. It is understandable that many fruits and vegetables probably experience some sort of refrigeration before it reaches the home. That said, keep them away from any more damage and destruction. Their bodies are very sensitive. Their genetic structures are easily mutated and destroyed. By leaving the fruits and vegetables out, humans will be able to "salvage" the benefits of the produce before consumption.

Also, by leaving the fresh produce out of the refrigerator, it places a bit more responsibility on the consumer to ensure the food is consumed in a timely fashion: thereby avoiding as much waste as possible. And naturally, humans would buy less produce as a means to not only avoid waste, but also to not hoard any of the produce that could have been consumed by a family that could have really used it. It forces human nature to be more concerned and aware with their actions. There will not be much need to buy produce in bulk.

As a means to move forward, buy respective fruit and vegetable baskets (no glass or plastic) and cover it. Allow the produce to breathe effeciently while it awaits your consumption. The produce will be so much more tasty and nutritious. At the end of the day, all of these foods are going into the human body. It should be consumed while it is most beneficial and nutritionally rich.

Refrigerators expose the Earth's magnificent fruits and vegetables to the essences and vibrations of all other products stored with it. By keeping them separate, it ensures their high quality until it is time for it to be consumed or naturally perish.

This is Clean Food. This is Clean living...

"HEY, WHEN WAS THAT HARVESTED, MADE, PACKED?" YOU DESERVE TO KNOW...

As I peruse the aisles of the local markets here in my hometown, I can't help but think, 'When was this produce picked? When was this hummus made and when were the chickpeas made for it? And how long have these fresh organic raspberries been sitting in the package before it gets to me? And how long did it take these "Turkish Figs" to reach the market from the farm?' So many questions. And my concern is mainly for those individuals that spend billions of dollars on these products in an effort to maintain a good healthy living and eating regimen. I guess the bigger question is, 'Would the people responsible ever reveal this information to the Earth's children?' I think for all of these things, people have the right to know.

The bananas you buy look beautiful and healthy, and are even possibly "Organic." But when exactly were they picked? What was the transport time between (hopefully) the farm to the retailer? Were they a bit young (and possibly underdeveloped, lacking some of its nutritious fortitude) when picked? Maybe you really want to know...or do you? Upon knowing this information, people may become hesitant and discretionary when it comes to buying certain goods and produce. Retailers don't have a problem appropriating expiration dates to some of these goods. But if the farmer, packer or distributor placed a "harvested, made or packaged date" on the produce and other goods, this would greatly affect the way the food business is transacted. It would force many food purveyors to take responsiblity for the freshness and viability of all goods. It would bring the nature of the business, as well as other things, into balance; therefore the retailer will have more discrimination with regard to what goods to sell and what goods are not worth selling, due to fast spoilage.

MY PROPOSAL

--All food purveyors should require their farmers, packers and distributors to enseal a date--for the everyone's eyes--indicating when the good or produce was harvested, made and packed.This would provide awareness to any possible issues the goods and produce could come in contact with throughout the transport process: and also as to how long the goods and produce are able to maintain its freshness.

--All farmers should require the packers and distributors to enseal a date of harvest on the produce. This is for the sheer sake of compassion for people's concerns and for the sake of business across the board. People would feel more at peace knowing these dates and that the discretion still remains in their hands.

--Consumers should require a "harvested, made and packed date" from all parties responsible. The power of demand is in their hands. If the consumer decides to stop buying organic avocados at a particular market due to issues with freshness, it forces the market to revisit the produce and the source: the same can be applied to any other set of produce or packaged goods.

OUTLOOK

--The fruit and vegetable industry would be more reluctant to sell certain produce or packaged varieties of the produce to the consumer because of the consumer's ability to be more discriminatory with their purchases.

--The pressure to maintain the freshness of all goods and produce will be increased greatly. The consumer would be more trusting and supportive to the markets that participated in this initiative.

--There will be more awareness of the sensitivity of all produce and goods between farmer, producer, distributor, retailer and consumer. At the end of the day, many people consume some sort of goods and produce from a market. And knowing this, health of the business on a whole is increased.

The importance of this date is great; we live in a time where fruits and vegetables are, not only possibly ridden with toxins of the sort, but also not always fresh. We would like the food industry to take full responsibility. But at the end of the day, it starts with the level of care on the part of the consumer. If every consumer of market goods had their own farm for fruits and vegetables, the business would suffer greatly across the board due to lack of demand. Remember the power that lay in those beautiful hands of yours.

The food industry must raise its behavior to a more ethical and compassionate level: to the consumers and their needs. Ethical behavior on everyone's part is how we as humans can raise our levels of awareness with regard to the supply and demand of fruits, vegetables and all other goods.

Your food should always be Clean; and many times it is. And as we move forward as a evolving race, let us raise the bar.

Clean Food is a must...

BOTTLED COCONUT WATER? OUR DEAR MOTHER NATURE WOULD NOT APPROVE...

I remember, as a teenager, many sweet summer vacations spent on the sunny island of Jamaica. In the midst of travels with the family, it was inevitable to run into a little street vendor selling sugar cane, gineps, mangos, and, of course, coconut water in a fresh coconut. This coconut water came straight from our mother nature's beautiful and unadulturated garden, maybe a few miles away. There was no moment better, at the time.

I now fast forward to about 2006: this is around the time I had tasted bottled coconut water for the first time. Someone let me taste it and told me it was good for me and it was better than any other drink after a physical workout. I tasted it, and proceeded to ask him, "Are you sure this is coconut water? I don't remember it tasting this way." And I was being honest. But of course there are some childhood attachments we all carry to some extent. So I decided to give it another try about 3 years ago. The sentiment remained the same. I just didn't like it and I haven't had it since.

Now we arrive here in 2011. I was having a conversation with someone from the islands and I asked this person how long coconut water can last. The answer was somewhat shocking: 3 to 5 days maximum. I proceeded to ask a slew of people from various cultures and countries where coconuts are native. They all gave a similar response. One person specifically told me that once the coconut water is exposed to oxygen, if it is not consumed that day, it is considered dead; this is because of the super small bacteria (smaller than the width of your hair) that the water attracts.So, I ask, if the typical fresh coconut water last no more than 5 days (say even 10 days for argument sake), what exactly are people drinking when they consume bottled coconut water?

It is very hard to believe that bottled coconut water is as pure as these major distributors and marketers are making them to be. One would be inclined to think that there must be a slew of "preservatives" in these beverages that they are not being 100% honest about. This leads me into the observation of the purported shelf-life of these drinks: some propose that they are good for up to one year and some propose even longer than that. Is the food of our Mother designed to be preserved and hoarded for such a long period of time?

Also, Coconuts are very sensitive. When picked, they should be lowered to the ground by rope and not dropped to avoid cracking and also to avoid disturbing the original nature of the water within. A small crack in the coconut makes it easily susceptible to bacteria and fast spoilage. The bottling of coconut water for international distribution is about 9 years old and it is said that it must be stored at a temperature in or around 40(f) degrees. Is every company selling the beverage and the retailer abiding by these "laws of nature"? I will say, that I have seen in many retailers the bottled coconut water just sitting in the packages that they arrived in on the floor for long periods of time (and we are not even factoring in the time of cultivation to bottling to packaging to shipping to distributing to selling and finally your consumption. Maybe a couple months have passed?). Is this how we treat our dear sensitve Coconut and its nutrients?

There is a lot of crafty and tactful marketing that is now going into this whole campaign. Many coconut water companies are using musicians, athletes and other celebrities of the sort to entice you to consume the beverage. Also, it is possible that these companies could be playing on the minds of people that have that childhood attachment (or even a vacation attachment) to the sweet and refreshing taste of the Coconut. And due to the recent high demand of bottled coconut water, scientists in the Phillipines and Vietnam have been commissioned to look into genetically modifying Coconuts in order to keep up with this demand.

As children of this Earth, we should all have an idea of what we are consuming. That said, the Earth has provided for us many things. Coconut water is not a must. It is something that is, ideally, enjoyed and relished straight from the coconut, in that moment: not from a bottle.

As a small aspect of this world and a dear servant of the Earth, please permit me to speak for our dear Mother Nature here: Coconut water in a bottle is not natural. There is too much risk of spoiling and bacteria contamination.

Bottled Coconut water is not Clean Food: and is not approved.

COOKED FOOD VS. RAW FOOD: ARE YOU STILL GETTING ALL THE VITAMINS AND NUTRIENTS?

This has been a huge debate for quite some time now. The raw vegetarian food eaters say that cooked food is completely dead; it is said that cooked food lacks the vitamins, nutrients and minerals that can be had when the food is eaten in its raw and pure form.

People that eat cooked food, and have been doing so for generations throughout cultures, see nothing at all wrong with eating a cooked meal on a daily basis.They say that the cooked meal has an adequate amount of nutrients and vitamins to keep the body going. They also add, that many foods are not easily digestible when eaten in its raw, pure form.

Both valid opinions.

Before we go on, I'll provide a little definition for the terms 'cooked' and 'raw':

--COOKED FOOD: Food that has been heated on a stove or in an oven above 104(f) degrees. Some foods must be cooked to be edible and digestible. The power of the Earth is still very present in these foods; however it is greatly reduced.

--RAW VEGETARIAN FOOD: Food that has not had any heat applied to it. Most of these types of food are easily digestible when eaten in its pure and natural state; the power of the Earth is much more vibrant in these foods.

And so we continue...

I think what this whole debate sums up to is the ability to achieve and maintain radiant health of the physical and mental body. Of course, for those that are vegetarians or vegans, the issue is usually about raising their levels of compassion within themselves for the slaughtered and mistreated animals throughout the world. Otherwise, it is usually about quieting the mind [for a plethora of reasons] or attaining some level of radiant health while living in a "toxic world."

Cooking food has been around for about over 100,000 years. Eating food in its natural and pure state most probably predates this: all an asumption nonetheless. The point here is this: it is easy to see why we humans cling to certain eating regimens. They have been passed through traditions of the sort for many years. The question is, do we get the right nutrients and vitamins required for the body, more so, in one eating regimen over the other? It all depends on what you know to be true. Whatever you know and believe with your heart, then it is that which works truly for you. You have to know this without any sort of doubt.

Many people have been known to eat cooked food and live over 100 years of age: the same with eating raw vegetarian food. So now what? Where does this leave us?

Well, if you have in your mind that you need to eat food that contains more vitamins, nutrients and minerals, then you need to make changes in your eating habits immediately. Otherwise, you will become very ill physically and mentally, over time. If you believe that eating Organic food is 1,000 times better for you than eating food that is not, make sure you make the switch 100% of the way. If you believe that eating raw vegetarian food is 1,000 times better for you than cooked food, make sure your diet is one that is consistent with a raw vegetarian diet in every way.

You have to ask yourself the following questions:
-"What does eating healthy mean to me?"
-"What is a balanced diet to me?"
-"Does cooked food deplete me of nutrients?"
-"Does a raw vegetarian diet give me more vitamins, nutrients and minerals?"
-"Does my current diet make me feel good everyday and all day?"

~~~~AND MOST IMPORTANTLY~~~~

-"What is a diet of Clean Food to me?"

All of the above questions must be answered without any anxiety, fear or doubt. The human body is very, very powerful. We are not completely aware of all of its intricacies. That said, people have been known to be unhealthy and healthy consuming both of these diets discussed here. The body has the ability to make anything into a treasure or a poison depending on how clean your mind and physical system is, as it stands. If there is an abundant amount of stress or repressed emotions in your being, pure water alone can lead to malfunctions of the major organs: due to the body's alchemical nature.

I say, eat the food that allows you to feel good. Eat the food that allows you to "not think about food." Eat the food that allows you to move, breathe and exist in a supreme way. Eat the food that you want to become a part of your own flesh and blood (you are what you eat, ya?). Justify your diet for no one else but yourself. The moment you feel that you have to justify, satisfy or appease someone or something outside of yourself with regard to your diet, you have to make changes. The doubt itself will make the flesh grow weary, let alone the food.

Do your own research. Form your own conclusions. Eat what you like until you feel that it is time to make a change. And if you make a change, make it from your own heart and being. Not for anyone or anything else.

Clean Food is that which nourishes your mind and body adequately. Clean food is food that is eaten in its most natural and pure state, to you of course.

Are you eating Clean Food?

PRICING OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: DO THE MARKETS CARE ABOUT YOUR FOOD?

Your produce is the best nourishment that money can buy. That said, it should be fresh, clean, pure, organic (when possible) and ethically priced. The market that sells your produce should care about the health and freshness of it as much as you do. In this day and age, such ethical behavior could come into question when markets are changing prices constantly to keep up with the demands of the business.

I have seen the price of Mangoes go from $1 a mango to $2 a mango overnight. I have seen organic raspberries go from $3.99 a package to $6.99 a package in an overnight period as well. A similar case with Organic Hass Avocados: $1.50 to $3.00 in a few days. I have made my voice heard with the store owners and customer service counters on several occassions about these rapid changes; they have attributed such price changes to oil prices, packaging, and availability. These are definitely pertinent factors with regard to the nature of business; however when the price of a Mango doubles in less than 10 hours at major market retailer and the reason is because of "high oil prices", ethical behavior with regard to pricing must come into question. And the question is, what exactly is the consumer paying for? Once in Guatemala, I purchased an Organic Hass Avocado for about the equivalent of 8 cents. How does that 8 cent avocado become one that fluctuates between $1.50 and $3.00 at the will of the retailer? These are the questions consumers must ask.

So why ask these questions? I say if the retailer is more concerned about pricing of produce, how much focus can there be about the ethical care of such produce? Is everything really organic? How is "Organic" defined between the farmer, distributor and the retailer? All the same or not? Is everything really coming from the sources that they say? Are some things made in an "Organic Lab" instead of an actual farm? (Yes, "Organic Labs." They exist.)

It is a bit disturbing when you think of all these things. Some people just prefer not to know any of these things and put all their trust in the owners of the markets and grocers. At the end of the day, all the food is going into your body, the body of your family and the bodies of your fellow mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters. We should all care and consider asking questions with regard to ethical behavior of these retailers and farmers. The great Imhotep (Egyptian God of Medicine) coined the phrase, "Let thy food be thy medicine." And if the food is to be the "healing of the nation," we as a people must begin to make sure that our food has the "power" they say it has. Our food must be treated in a beautiful and ethical way: from farmer to retailer to your home.

Clean food is food that is ethically priced and treated in a way that is loving, caring and honest.

Make sure your food is Clean: for you and your world...