Don’t leave perishable food at room temperature for longer than two hours for safety's sake. PHOTO: THINKSTOCK

When in doubt, throw it out

Don’t risk it on foods stored at improper temperatures for too long

I had to go to the grocery store at 6 a.m. to pick up two more packages of deli turkey because somebody left the first two packages on the counter,” my husband noted one morning. “Well, when in doubt, throw it out, right?” he added. “Yes, that’s the rule,” I said. I was happy I

Healthy snacks can keep hunger pangs at bay, 
but make good food choices for best results.

Healthy snacks to satisfy your hunger cravings

Prairie Fare: There are a wide variety of healthy — and delicious — foods to choose from

Snacking can be an excellent way to meet daily nutrient needs, satisfy hunger and boost energy levels. Unfortunately, it can also lead to overeating, weight gain, fatigue and chronic health concerns. To avoid these potential dangers and maximize the benefits of snacking it’s important to think about snacking as part of your overall healthy eating


Modern electric pressure cookers are far safer
and easier to use than the old stovetop models.

Under pressure

Prairie Fare: New ‘smart’ electric pressure cookers are safer and easier than ever

Are you enjoying your coffee?” my husband asked our 19-year-old daughter. “Please stop spying on me!” she exclaimed as she opened the front door of our home. She was not impressed with her parents. “I could turn off the lights in the house now,” my husband said to me a little mischievously. “No, we better

Beautiful African American woman and her daughter cooking in the kitchen

Plan ahead for healthy and affordable eating

Prairie Fare: Don’t plan on just winging it in the kitchen — having a strategy will help you

One of the best ways to save money and stay on top of healthy eating goals is to make a meal plan. Whether you jot notes on the family calendar, create detailed lists or use an online planning tool, taking time to plan what you want to make and eat can help you save money,


Vegetables should fill at least half your plate for a healthy meal.

Study shows more benefits of family mealtimes

Prairie Fare: Here are a few tips to help you make regular family mealtimes a reality

One morning as I was brushing my teeth, I heard a snippet on a news program about new Canadian family meals research. I zipped into the living room with my toothbrush still in hand, wanting to hear more. We at the NDSU Extension Service launched “The Family Table” a year ago to encourage families to

Plunging mercury usually means warm and filling meals.

Be ready for extreme cold this winter

Prairie Fare: Dress appropriately, have emergency equipment and supplies on hand, 
and enjoy hearty filling fare

Jake looked up at me with his dark brown eyes. He appeared kind of sad. He was standing by his blue sweater, which one of my daughters had removed. She thought he was too warm in his woolly sweater because he already has a fur coat. Yes, Jake is a dog. Our bitterly cold January


Microwave ovens are a convenient way to cook and don’t destroy nutrients at all.

Do microwave ovens zap nutrients in foods?

Prairie Fare: Actually, cooking in a microwave can help you preserve the nutrients in your food

The other day, I received a message when I returned to my desk after a meeting. Someone had called to ask about microwave ovens and nutrition. As I listened to the question, I decided that I was settling a bet. When people are making wagers about nutrition, I don’t mind being involved. The gentleman caller’s

If you have a plan it’s less likely your leftovers will languish in the fridge until they’ve spoiled.

Plan-overs beat leftovers

Prairie Fare: By planning ahead you can minimize food waste by creating new dishes

What do you think?” my husband asked as I took a taste of the piping hot casserole. “It’s kind of bland. It needs more pepper,” I said a little too quickly. I noticed his expression resembled that of a sad puppy. I had criticized the entree he made. Note to self: Always compliment the cook.


Diabetes can sneak up on you without warning, but it can also be managed effectively and even prevented.

Are you among the one in three with prediabetes?

Millions in North America have prediabetes and most don’t even know it

Millions of North Americans have this condition and 90 per cent do not know they have it. Do you know what it is? Here’s a hint: The condition occurs when the cells in your body do not respond normally to insulin, which is made by your pancreas. The answer is “prediabetes.” Having prediabetes means you

Hot Cocoa Mix Snowman.

Gifts from the kitchen

Prairie Fare: Giving gifts from the kitchen is a fun way to share a little of yourself with others this holiday season

If you prefer the kitchen to the mall, you still have plenty of time to make homemade edible gifts for the people on your list. Your recipients will appreciate a tasty treat and be touched by the sentiment and creativity you put into their gift. And you get to reminisce about each recipient while you’re