Food and Beverage
Give Your Brain a Boost: 5 ways to promote brain health
Last Updated on July 14, 2024 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) When it comes to staying healthy, there is a natural emphasis on physical fitness. However, it’s important to know that nurturing and maintaining brain health is also important for leading a fulfilling life.
The brain is the command center of the human body and as such, influences every aspect of life. Maintaining brain health requires providing it with nourishment, rest and healthy stimulation.
Consuming healthy, whole foods, including vegetables and fruits, such as grapes, can help establish a strong foundation for brain health. For example, grapes may help protect against metabolic decline in the brain associated with natural aging; in a human study of elderly subjects with mild cognitive decline, UCLA researchers found consuming 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day preserved healthy metabolic activity in regions of the brain associated with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, where metabolic decline takes hold.
Adding grapes to your favorite healthy recipes, or enjoying them as a simple snack, helps support a healthy brain. Consider these additional ways to promote positive brain health from the experts at the Mayo Clinic.
Sleep Well
Health experts recommend aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, adequate sleep may help boost overall memory and brain health by giving the brain time to effectively consolidate memories.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Eating nutritiously benefits the body in many ways, including playing a role in brain health. Healthy eating plans like the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, are thought by experts to be especially beneficial. Recipes like Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula deliver an array of ingredients to support brain health in delicious ways. This recipe is also heart smart because what is good for the heart is also good for the brain.
Stay Social
Keep in touch with family and friends. According to health experts, including the Mayo Clinic, staying connected and interacting socially can help defend against depression and stress, which may contribute to memory loss.
Exercise Regularly
Staying physically active provides well-known benefits for the body, and exercising can also benefit the brain by increasing blood flow to it. Once your workout is over, turn to a post-workout snack like Grapes from California for an energy boost and natural hydration.
Keep Your Mind Active
Like muscles throughout your body, the brain should be used continuously to strengthen it. With nearly endless ways to stimulate the mind, there’s something for everyone to keep their brains in shape from crossword or jigsaw puzzles to reading, learning a new language, playing cards or conquering sudoku.
To find more information about the connection between grapes and health, or discover nutritious recipes, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup Israeli pearl couscous
- 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 can (15 ounces) no-salt-added chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
- 1 cup red Grapes from California, halved
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups lightly packed baby arugula
- lemon wedges
- In large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt and allspice; cook, stirring, until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add couscous and stir 1 minute to toast lightly. Add turmeric and water; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until couscous is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir chickpeas, grapes and cilantro into couscous then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer couscous-grape mixture to large bowl, add arugula and toss well. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges.
Nutritional information per serving: 370 calories; 12 g protein; 61 g carbohydrates; 9 g fat (17% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (2% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 160 mg sodium; 8 g fiber.
SOURCE:
California Table Grape Commission
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/food-and-beverage
You can also find food and beverage-related videos on our YouTube channel, where we regularly post new content and share tips, recipes, and demonstrations. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEhXBupt8tVynuUhpQZMxQt4lvPmOiAtQ&si=InDwc7YaB0KIwmxy
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Community
Mr. Drain Plumbing’s “Flush Away Hunger” Drive Shows How Small Acts Create Big Impact
Mr. Drain Plumbing’s inaugural “Flush Away Hunger” food drive collected donations for the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank, proving local businesses can mobilize communities to fight food insecurity through simple, sustainable charitable initiatives.
Mr. Drain Plumbing’s “Flush Away Hunger” Drive Shows How Small Acts Create Big Impact
When a Sacramento plumbing company decided to tackle more than just clogged drains this November, they proved that community support doesn’t require grand gestures—just genuine commitment and a willingness to show up. Mr. Drain Plumbing recently wrapped up its inaugural “Flush Away Hunger” canned food drive, a three-week initiative that brought customers and employees together to support local families facing food insecurity during the Thanksgiving season. Running from November 1st through 20th, the friendly competition collected shelf-stable items for the Orangevale–Fair Oaks Food Bank, turning everyday plumbing appointments into opportunities for meaningful community impact.A Competition That Everyone Wins
The drive’s format was simple but effective: customers and team members competed to see who could donate the most non-perishable items. To sweeten the deal, Mr. Drain offered customers who donated four or more items a 10% discount on their next plumbing service—a small thank-you that encouraged participation while keeping the focus where it belonged: on helping neighbors in need. “This time of year can be especially difficult for many families, and we’re grateful to everyone who joined us in giving what they could,” said Patrick Fee, Co-Founder of Mr. Drain. “Our goal wasn’t to pat ourselves on the back, but simply to make a difference in our community. It all starts with small acts, and we’re honored to be part of that effort.”High Demand Marks “Veggies for Veterans” Event Amid SNAP Delays
Why Local Food Banks Need Year-Round Support
While Thanksgiving and the winter holidays often inspire charitable giving, food insecurity doesn’t take a vacation. The Orangevale–Fair Oaks Food Bank serves local households throughout the year, providing not just food but resources and hope to families navigating difficult circumstances. Mr. Drain’s initiative highlights an important truth: businesses have the power to mobilize their communities in ways that extend far beyond their core services. By integrating charitable giving into their everyday operations, they created a model that’s both sustainable and scalable—one that other local businesses could easily adapt.Small Acts, Lasting Impact
What makes the “Flush Away Hunger” drive particularly noteworthy isn’t just the donations collected, but the approach behind it. Rather than positioning themselves as saviors, Mr. Drain framed the initiative as a community effort—one where customers, employees, and the company itself all played a role. This kind of grassroots engagement matters. It reminds us that supporting our neighbors doesn’t require wealth or influence—just awareness, empathy, and action. Whether it’s donating canned goods during a plumbing appointment or volunteering at a local food bank, every contribution adds up.Continuing the Momentum
As the holiday season continues, Mr. Drain is encouraging Sacramento-area residents to keep supporting the Orangevale–Fair Oaks Food Bank and other local nonprofits. The need doesn’t disappear when the decorations come down, and sustained community support is what allows these organizations to fulfill their missions year-round. For businesses looking to make a difference, Mr. Drain’s approach offers a blueprint: start where you are, use what you have, and invite your community to join you. The results might surprise you.About Mr. Drain Plumbing
Mr. Drain Plumbing provides residential and commercial plumbing services throughout the Sacramento area, specializing in water heater repair, hydro-jetting, trenchless pipe replacement, and more. Their fully insured team combines advanced technology with a commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement. To learn more about Mr. Drain Plumbing, visit mrdrainplumbers.com. For current seasonal specials and coupons, check out their coupons page.Looking for ways to support your local community this holiday season? Consider donating to the Orangevale–Fair Oaks Food Bank or reaching out to nonprofits in your area to see how you can help.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Food and Beverage
How Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken Became a Southern California Icon
Discover the history of Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken, from its South L.A. origins to its rise through immigrant entrepreneurship and Cajun-inspired flavor.
Last Updated on December 7, 2025 by Daily News Staff
How Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken Became a Southern California Icon
From a Garage to a Recipe
In 1976 Joe Dion — a Michigan native with years of fast-food experience — experimented with a Cajun batter inspired by New Orleans flavors. After perfecting a zesty, slightly spicy crust, Dion opened the first Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken near Vermont Avenue and Imperial Highway. Locals loved it; within three years there were multiple shops.A Different Kind of Expansion
Rather than build a tightly controlled franchise system, Dion licensed his recipe and name to independent owners. That low-cost licensing model allowed rapid, grassroots expansion: stores spread across Los Angeles County and beyond, each owner tailoring service and hours to neighborhood needs.The Cambodian-American Story
During the 1980s and 1990s many Cambodian refugees and immigrants embraced the licensing model as a path to economic stability. Over time, Cambodian-American families came to own and operate many locations — and in 2009 entrepreneur Michael P. Eng formalized that legacy by purchasing the brand. For many owners, a Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken restaurant is family, community, and opportunity rolled into one.What You’ll Find Today
Menu staples remain true to the chain’s roots: Cajun-style fried chicken (fresh, not frozen), red beans and rice, fried fish and shrimp, and classic Southern sides. But because each location is independently run, you’ll also find regional variations and house specialties that reflect the neighborhood and owner’s background.Why the Story Matters
- Immigrant resilience: The chain illustrates how immigrant entrepreneurship can rebuild lives and communities.
- Community-driven business: A licensing model allowed small, independent operators to thrive.
- Cultural fusion: Louisiana flavors mixed with LA neighborhoods created a distinct regional food tradition.
Next time you bite into that Cajun-crusted chicken, remember — you’re tasting a recipe that helped build lives and neighborhoods across Southern California.
Related: More Foodie News • Cajun cuisine
Related Information about Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Food
Consumer Trust in Responsible Seafood Drives New “Seafood You Can Trust” Campaign
New GlobeScan research shows two-thirds of consumers trust the BAP seafood certification label, prompting the Global Seafood Alliance to launch a 2026 “Seafood You Can Trust” consumer campaign focused on transparency and responsible seafood sourcing.
Last Updated on December 9, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Consumer Trust in Responsible Seafood Drives New “Seafood You Can Trust” Campaign
When two-thirds of consumers say they trust a certification label, that’s not just a marketing win—it’s a mandate for action. New research from GlobeScan, conducted for the Global Seafood Alliance (GSA), reveals that consumers across five countries are actively seeking responsible seafood options and relying on credible certifications to guide their purchasing decisions. The findings have prompted GSA to launch a new consumer-facing campaign in 2026 centered on a simple but powerful message: “Seafood You Can Trust.”What Seafood Consumers Really Care About
The survey, which polled at least 1,000 consumers in Canada, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, focused on people who had purchased seafood in the last six months or consumed fish in the past year. The goal was to understand what drives seafood purchasing decisions and how certification labels like Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) influence consumer behavior. The results paint a clear picture: consumers want seafood that tastes good, is safe to eat, supports their health, and fits their budget. Nearly half of respondents identified safety as a critical factor when choosing farmed seafood, while more than half (53%) said they actively want to avoid products from irresponsible companies. “It’s encouraging to see consumers recognizing the value of responsible seafood,” said Gayle Chong, principal at GlobeScan. “Credible certification plays a vital role in guiding purchasing decisions and sends a powerful signal to the industry that integrity matters.”The Trust Factor: Why BAP Certification Resonates
One of the most significant findings from the survey is the level of trust consumers place in the BAP label. Two-thirds of respondents expressed confidence in BAP certification, with Spanish consumers showing the highest trust levels. More than half (53%) said the BAP label would directly influence their decision to buy or eat a seafood product. This matters because trust is the currency of modern food systems. In an era of supply chain complexity and competing claims about sustainability, consumers need reliable signals to help them make informed choices. When a certification label earns that trust, it becomes more than a marketing tool—it becomes a bridge between responsible producers and conscious consumers. More than four in ten consumers reported intentionally purchasing eco-labeled fish and seafood products, demonstrating that responsible sourcing isn’t just a niche concern—it’s a mainstream expectation.Who Do Consumers Trust for Seafood Information?
The survey also explored which sources of information consumers find most credible when it comes to responsible seafood. The top trusted sources were:- Fishers and fishmongers
- Certification organizations
- Scientists
- Chefs
Introducing the 2026 “Seafood You Can Trust” Campaign
Armed with these insights, GSA is launching a new consumer-facing marketing campaign in 2026 built around the tagline “Seafood You Can Trust.” The phrase was one of the top-chosen taglines by consumers across all surveyed countries—a testament to its clarity and resonance. “Our chosen campaign tagline, Seafood You Can Trust, was one of the top chosen taglines by consumers across all countries—a simple yet effective message,” said Elise Avallon, GSA’s marketing director. “We look forward to working with retail and food service partners, as well as BAP-certified producers, to bring this campaign to life.” The campaign will leverage the survey’s findings to meet consumers where they are—on product packaging, through trusted voices, and with straightforward messaging that cuts through the noise. By emphasizing safety, responsibility, and credibility, the campaign aims to make it easier for consumers to choose seafood that aligns with their values.Why This Matters Beyond Marketing
The GlobeScan survey and the resulting campaign represent more than a branding exercise. They reflect a broader shift in how consumers think about food—not just as fuel or pleasure, but as a choice with consequences. When consumers say they want to avoid irresponsible companies, they’re expressing a desire for accountability. When they trust certification labels, they’re signaling that third-party verification matters. And when they actively seek out eco-labeled products, they’re voting with their wallets for a food system that prioritizes sustainability alongside taste and affordability. For producers, retailers, and food service operators, this research offers a roadmap. Consumers are ready to support responsible seafood—they just need clear, credible information to guide their choices. Certifications like BAP provide that clarity, and campaigns like “Seafood You Can Trust” amplify the message.Getting Involved
GSA recently hosted a webinar providing an overview of the key findings from the GlobeScan study, which is available to view online. The organization is also inviting retail and food service partners, as well as BAP-certified producers, to get involved in the 2026 marketing campaign. As the seafood industry continues to navigate challenges around sustainability, traceability, and consumer trust, initiatives like this demonstrate that transparency and credibility aren’t just good ethics—they’re good business.About the Global Seafood Alliance
The Global Seafood Alliance is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing responsible seafood practices through education, advocacy, and third-party assurance. The Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification program is one of the most comprehensive and widely recognized aquaculture certification programs in the world.Sources: For more stories about the latest Food and Beverage news, whether it’s locally or globally, visit our Food & Drink section. Interested in learning more about responsible seafood sourcing? Look for the BAP certification label next time you’re shopping for fish or seafood.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
