5 Ways to Be Environmentally Conscious at Home

(Family Features) Being environmentally conscious doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, by making simple changes to your daily routine, you can make a positive impact on the planet while also saving money and living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Consider these practical ways to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations right from the comforts of your own home.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This classic mantra is still relevant today. By reducing the amount of waste you produce, reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic and glass, you can help minimize the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans. Composting food scraps and avoiding single-use plastic items like water bottles and shopping bags can also help reduce your impact on the environment.

Conserve Energy: One of the biggest contributors to climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. Simple steps like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, adjusting your thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs and using energy-efficient lightbulbs and appliances can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run.

Save Water: Water is a precious resource, and it’s important to use it wisely. Simple actions like fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, using the dishwasher or washing machine only when full and watering your garden in the early morning or late evening can help conserve water and protect the water supply. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to further reduce water usage.

Choose Sustainable Products: When shopping for household items, look for products made from sustainable materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. Choosing products with minimal packaging or opting for eco-friendly alternatives can help reduce waste.

Grow Your Own Food: If you have the space, consider starting a small garden at home. Growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs allows you to enjoy fresh, organic produce while also reducing the carbon footprint of your food by cutting out the transportation and packaging involved in store-bought produce.

Find more tips for going green at home at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

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SOURCE:
eLivingToday.com

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In a decisive move to ensure consumer safety, Wiers Farm, Inc., a respected distributor based in Willard, OH, has announced a voluntary recall of select cucumber products over concerns of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall specifically targets a limited number of whole and bagged salad cucumbers, sourced from out of state and distributed under the Wiers Farm brand.

Recall Details

Date of Announcement: July 12, 2024
FDA Publish Date: July 16, 2024
Product Types: Whole cucumbers and 2 lb bagged salad cucumbers
Pack Dates: June 5, 2024 (whole cucumbers), June 5 and 6, 2024 (salad cucumbers)
Distribution: Select Walmart stores in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio

Reason for Recall

The potential for contamination was identified through routine sampling by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). While no illnesses or customer complaints have been reported to date, Wiers Farm is proceeding with the utmost caution to safeguard its customers.

About Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria capable of causing the serious infection known as listeriosis. It primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and adults with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. If you have consumed any of the recalled products and are experiencing these symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly. More information about Listeria can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Product Identification

Whole Cucumbers: Approximately 1.5-2.5 inches in diameter and 6-9 inches in length
Bagged Salad Cucumers: Packaged in a clear bag with a blue base, marked with the specified pack dates

Consumer Action

Consumers in possession of the affected cucumbers are urged not to consume them. Even though the products are past their shelf life and likely out of distribution, if you still have them, please safely dispose of them immediately. Questions or concerns can be addressed by contacting Wiers Farm customer care at (419) 933-2161 or via email at customercare@wiersfarm.com.

Company Statement

Wiers Farm has expressed its commitment to the highest standards of food safety and health. “We have taken immediate steps to address this isolated incident and are collaborating closely with the Ohio Department other traceability data to ensure that the product in question is swiftly and effectively removed from all channels,” stated a company spokesperson.

Summary

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in the food distribution process. Wiers Farm’s proactive steps in recalling potentially affected products underscore their dedication to consumer safety and health standards. Consumers are advised to follow recall instructions and dispose of any questionable products to ensure health and safety.

FDA notice: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wiers-farm-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-whole-and-salad-cucumbers-due-possible-contamination-listeria

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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In a decisive action prioritizing consumer safety, Reser’s Fine Foods has issued a voluntary recall for one of its popular products, the Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad, available in 48 oz (3LB) containers. This recall specifically targets products with a Use By Date of JUL/26/24. The reason behind this precautionary step is the discovery of potential contamination from pieces of hard plastic, which could present a health risk to consumers.

Key Details of the Mustard Potato Salad Recall:

• Company Announcement Date: July 02, 2024
• FDA Publish Date: July 09, 2024
• Product Type: Food & Beverages
• Reason for Recall: Possibility of Hard Plastic Foreign Material
• Company Name: Reser’s Fine Foods
• Brand Name: Hill Country Fare
• Product Description: Mustard Potato Salad

This product was exclusively distributed through H-E-B and Joe V’s Smart Shop stores located within Texas and was produced at a regional facility operated by Reser’s Fine Foods. It is important to note that, fortunately, no injuries or adverse effects have been reported as of now.

Consumer Safety Measures

To prevent any potential hazards, all affected product batches have been removed from retail shelves. Reser’s urges consumers who have purchased this specific product to avoid consuming it. Instead, they should return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund or safely dispose of it.

Contact Information for Consumer Inquiries:

For those with further questions or in need of additional information regarding this recall, Reser’s Fine Foods has made provisions for customer communication. You can reach them at:

• Phone: 888-223-2127
• Operational Hours: Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time.

Why This Recall Matters

Recalls are a vital part of ensuring safety in the food supply chain. Reser’s Fine Foods has taken this proactive step out of an abundance of caution to protect its consumers from any possible harm. Such actions reflect a commitment to high standards of food safety and consumer protection.

Taking Action

If you have purchased the recalled Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad, check the packaging for the specified Use By Date, and follow the outlined safety guidelines. It’s also wise to keep abreast of updates from Reser’s Fine Foods and the FDA.

This voluntary recall showcases the importance of rigorous quality checks and responsiveness in addressing any potential risk swiftly. For continued safety, keep informed about the latest food recalls and guidelines issued by health and food safety organizations.

Closing Thoughts

Reser’s Fine Foods remains dedicated to upholding the highest levels of safety and quality and is actively working on measures to prevent future issues. Consumers can rest assured that swift actions like these reflect a commitment to their well-being.

For continuous updates, stay tuned to the FDA’s announcements or sign up for direct alerts from food safety authorities to ensure you and your lovedators are always protected.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/resers-fine-foods-announces-voluntary-recall-hill-country-fare-mustard-potato-salad-use-date-jul2624

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