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Food and Health

apple with a heart shaped cut removed from the skin
The current interest in food and health, thanks partly to celebrity chefs, has led to a demand for fresh, locally-produced, unprocessed food.  But although the last ten years have seen an explosion in the number of cookery magazines, TV programmes, food websites and celebrity chefs, all are disproportionate to the actual food activity which takes place!

Within the WI, Home Economics is a core activity.  Predominantly members are rural, based in village communities, and are interested in making food from good ingredients using sound cooking skills. Many of our members are experienced cooks and may have a professional background in food and/or teaching.

An example of traffic lights food labelling system
The NFWI (National Federation of Women’s Institutes) supports the promotion of healthy eating and signpost labelling using the traffic lights scheme and has worked in the community for many years to try and help stem the tide of obesity and diet-related problems in children and the associated risk of chronic disease in later life.

Since 2006 many members have volunteered their time and commitment to run practical cookery courses for the “Let’s cook!” project to disadvantaged local groups across England and Wales so that young parents know how to prepare a basic, healthy, family meal for their children. The project is funded by the Food Standards Agency.

Our members believe that the right diet should be a balanced one. The key is balance and moderation and an easy visual way to see this is to use the FSA’s Eatwell plate. The message is simple and often heard, “Eat less fat, sugar and salt. Eat more fruit and vegetables.”

Eatwell Plate illustrates how to have a balanced diet
The FSA’s Eatwell plate is a simple and practical image which easily illustrates the recommended proportions for a healthy balanced diet. It shows that  you can still enjoy all your favourite foods, although perhaps in smaller portions or less often! The secret is to eat a balanced diet.

Saturated Fat 

Eating too much saturated fat over time can lead to a build up of fatty deposits in the arteries that supply the heart. This can put you at a greater risk of heart disease and heart attacks. There are lots of positive steps you can take to reduce your saturated fat intake and these include tips on shopping, preparation and cooking. Click here for more information.