September 12, 2006
October Is Seafood Month -- Catch The Wave
October is near and with it comes cooler temperatures that just seem to add a little extra bounce to our steps. It is a good month to focus on your health by increasing exercise while enjoying the fresh air during frequent walks and eating healthier.
The USDA Dietary Guidelines provide recommendations for a proper balance of a variety of foods. For protein sources, the USDA information touts the benefits of including fish and seafood two to three times each week in meal plans. Since October is National Seafood Month, it is a good time to kick off this healthy seafood habit while supporting an important Florida industry.
Seafood is an important part of our state's heritage and economy. Florida is a source of excellent seafood, aquaculture and marine life products. Florida's fishermen harvest 98 different species on a commercial scale with 2005 cash receipts totaling more than $165 million. Florida aquaculture producers farm a vast array of products with sales totaling $95.5 million in 2003. Tropical fish, aquatic plants and clams are the top three aquaculture operations. Florida seafood and aquaculture has an economic impact estimated at more than $1.3 billion annually.
“Seafood can be an excellent part of a healthy and balanced diet,” Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson said. “There are many reasons to incorporate Florida seafood in your meal plan several times a week. It just makes sense. It is a low-fat protein source with many nutrients.”
Seafood is widely known for its omega-3 fatty acid properties. Many organizations support the benefits of its frequent consumption. According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 fatty acids can benefit individuals with healthy hearts as well as those who have heart disease. The United States Department of Agriculture’s www.mypyramid.gov website indicates that there is evidence that eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease. A four-year study funded by the National Institutes of Health, found that citizens 65 and older who eat fish at least once a week have a 60 percent lower risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
There are lots of quick and easy ways to incorporate seafood into your family meals. Since you should never overcook seafood, it is quicker to prepare than most protein sources. So even if your meal preparation has to work around all the hustle and bustle of an increase of fall activities that go along with school, the football season, Halloween and plans for the future holidays, you will find it easier than you think.
Here are some tips to easily include seafood in your meals without spending a lot of time in the kitchen or breaking the budget.
-- Buy Florida fish in fresh filet or steak form for quick preparation. Filets are normally bone-free and steaks are usually cut into serving sizes, making the prep time a snap. You can grill, broil, poach or bake with your favorite seasoning. Serve as entrée for your evening meal or flake into a salad for lunch.
-- Try different sizes of Florida shrimp and use for different appetizers or in main courses. Shrimp can simply be seasoned with garlic, lemon or other spices and broiled.
-- Prepare grilled kabobs that include your favorite veggies and Florida seafood. Serve with rice pilaf and/or whole wheat rolls for a complete healthy meal.
-- Florida oysters are abundant in fall and can be steamed, grilled, baked or broiled. They can be purchased both shucked and in the shell at your local market.
-- Tacos make a quick supper. Try using Florida fish, shrimp or crab in them.
If you are more adventurous and would like to prepare seafood dishes that are a little more elaborate, visit www.FL-Seafood.com.
For more information:
Phyllis McCranie
(850) 488-0163
mccranp@doacs.state.fl.us
