Friday Food Facts

Did you know …Spinach consumption in the U.S. rose 33% after the Popeye comic strip became a hit in the 1930s.

Spinach has a high nutritional value and is extremely rich in antioxidants, especially when fresh, steamed, or quickly boiled. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, E and K and high in magnesium, folate, iron, calcium, potassium and other important minerals. The popular omega-3 fatty acids are found in spinach too.

Maybe that’s why Arizona grows more than $50 million worth of this wonderfully nutritious and tasty spinach each year. Well, now you know.

America’s favorite fiber is cotton. Arizona cotton farmers are credited with growing the highest quality grade of cotton around. And, despite much fewer acres planted in cotton, this crop remains our largest agriculture export commodity in the state bringing more than $500 million into Arizona.

Americans love cheese. Did you know that tangy piece of Sharp Cheddar Cheese made from Arizona milk that you love so much is aged 6 to 9 months?

On average, a person spends five years eating during a lifetime. Arizona families need to make sure they spend that time eating a balanced diet of fruits, veggies, whole grains, meat and egg proteins and dairy — Arizona farmers contribute to all food groups.

Fruits and vegetables like lots of sun. In Arizona we have so much, we’re planting and harvesting 12 months out of the year! 90% of fruits and vegetables are grown and harvested in Yuma, Arizona and shipped all over the country from November through March of each year.