Food & Farm News
» November 17, 2008 «
Water contractors warn against new delta pumping restrictions
State water contractors are joining the California Farm Bureau Federation in voicing their opposition to any drastic new restrictions on pumping water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. Members of the contractors' group deliver water to 25 million residents throughout the state and to more than 750,000 acres of farmland. The California Department of Fish and Game is considering restrictions to protect the longfin smelt. Contractors say any additional water restrictions could affect human health and safety and not guarantee any protection to the fish.
Dairy cooperative plans market expansion
Humboldt Creamery is expanding its marketing to several Western states. The dairy cooperative has been in existence since 1929, but is virtually unknown outside Humboldt County. It plans to market ice cream and fluid milk products next year in nearby states. The advertising agency hired by the company intends to highlight the members who are family farmers. The plan is to gradually expand to markets nationwide.
Classic Thanksgiving dinner is still affordable 
Turkey and the trimmings for a classic Thanksgiving dinner will cost a little more this year but remain affordable, according to an American Farm Bureau survey. The total average dinner cost is up about $2.35 from last year, to $44.61 for a feast for 10. However, when adjusted for inflation, the real cost is about 8 percent less than in 1988. The Farm Bureau survey was conducted in 38 states, including California, and involved 179 volunteer shoppers.
Pistachios linked to better heart health
Pistachios reduce the risk of heart disease as well as lower cholesterol and blood pressure, according to a Penn State University study. Participants in the study were fed three different controlled diets, one without pistachios, one with 1.5 ounces daily and one with 3 ounces. Those eating 3 ounces reduced their total cholesterol by more than 8 percent as well as decreased blood pressure. The study was the first of its kind looking at the effects of pistachio consumption alone. California farmers produce 96 percent of the nation's pistachios.
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