False Health Claims On Foods

I’m a fan of Celebrity Apprentice and this past Sunday it came down to the final two, actress Holly Robinson Peete and rocker Bret Michaels. Both are fighting for causes that are personal to them. Holly is fighting for autism and Bret is fighting for diabetes. In this last episode, Holly and Bret had to come up with a new flavor for Snapple tea. I loved that Bret focused on diet Snapple, as a way to help those dealing with diabetes. This is a product that is helpful to those who are dealing with diabetes. Many of us are more … Continue reading

Should Foods Come with Choking Warnings?

Warning labels for choking hazards are required on certain toys — especially those with small parts and balls. Here in the United States, it’s a federal law! But there isn’t a similar law on the books for foods that may be choking hazards. The American Academy of Pediatrics — the largest group of pediatricians in the United States — would like to see a similar federal law for foods that may be choking hazards… or see more foodmakers willingly add choking hazard warnings to their labels. Another alternative would be redesigning foods to make them less of a choking hazard … Continue reading

Consumer Group Wants Dyes Banned

I remember in the ‘70s when some consumer advocate groups wanted Red Dye No. 2 used in hot dogs and other foods to be banned because many feared it caused cancer. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) eventually banned it. Now, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CPSI) is hoping the FDA will ban the Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 dyes because research has shown these contain carcinogens and contaminants that could cause cancer, allergic reactions, and hyperactivity in children. CSPI Executive Director Michael Jacobson said, “These synthetic chemicals do absolutely nothing to improve the nutritional … Continue reading

Remembering Your Kid is Just a Kid

As the parent of a special needs child, I can’t help but think of my child as special or unique. In late 2008, my daughter Lily was born with a detached esophagus that had to be surgically repaired three days after she was born. As a result, Lily never breastfed, never drank out of a bottle, and, until she was six months old, was only able to drink half an ounce of liquid by mouth each day. So without question, Lily is special. There are times, though, when I have to force myself to take a step back and recognize … Continue reading