Unlock the Secrets of Sauerkraut and Yogurt-Making with UCCE San Joaquin Master Food Preservers Colleen and Barbara on Saturday February 17th!  Virtual Zoom Class 10am-Noon.  Sign up for our Newsletter for registration link or Follow us on Facebook.

Serving Ideas Galore Unlock the potential of your creations with a variety of serving ideas that will elevate your fermented delights. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones!

Sauerkraut with Colleen. Learn the secrets of making sauerkraut with the expert guidance of Linda. Discover the traditional techniques and tips that make this fermented delight so special. Don't miss the chance to spice up your kitchen adventures. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yogurt-Making with Barbara will take you on a journey into the world of yogurt-making. From the basics to pro tips. She will guide you through creating your own creamy, homemade yogurt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yogurt Photo by Sara Cervera on Unsplash

Sauerkraut Photo by Kelsey Todd on Unsplash

Beeswax cloth presents a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic film wraps. In contrast to plastic wraps that contribute to pollution and have a slow decomposition process lasting years, beeswax wraps naturally break down, mitigating their environmental impact. Unlike plastic wrap, which is typically non-biodegradable and can persist in the environment for extended periods, beeswax wraps offer a more environmentally conscious choice. The prolonged breakdown time of many plastic products, spanning hundreds of years, raises significant environmental concerns.

When purchasing or using beeswax food wraps, it's essential to check with the manufacturer to ensure that the materials and ingredients used comply with safety standards for food contact. Some manufacturers may provide information on their product packaging or websites regarding the safety and composition of their beeswax wraps.

The Pros:

Environmentally Friendly: Beeswax cloth is a sustainable and biodegradable option. Unlike plastic wraps, which contribute to pollution and take years to decompose, beeswax wraps break down naturally, reducing the environmental impact. Plastic wrap is generally not biodegradable, and it can persist in the environment for a long time. Many plastic products take hundreds of years to break down, leading to environmental concerns.

Reusable: One of the significant advantages of beeswax cloth is its reusability. With proper care, these wraps can be used for up to a year. This reduces the need for single-use plastics, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Breathable and Flexible: Beeswax wraps are breathable, allowing food to stay fresh for longer periods without the risk of condensation. They are also flexible and can easily conform to the shape of various containers, providing a versatile alternative to plastic wrap.

Natural Preservation:  The antimicrobial properties of beeswax and jojoba oil help preserve food naturally. This can extend the shelf life of certain products and reduce food waste.

Customizable: Beeswax wraps are available in various sizes and patterns, allowing users to choose wraps that suit their needs and preferences. This adds a touch of personalization to sustainable living.

The Cons:

Limited Lifespan: While beeswax wraps are reusable, they do have a limited lifespan. After extended use, the wraps can lose their effectiveness, and the beeswax coating may wear off, requiring replacement.

Not Suitable for All Foods: Beeswax wraps are not recommended for use with raw meat or hot items, as the heat can melt the wax coating. This limitation may affect their practicality in certain cooking and food storage scenarios.

Initial Cost: The upfront cost of purchasing beeswax wraps may be higher compared to traditional plastic wrap. However, the long-term savings from reusability can offset this initial investment.

Care and Maintenance:   Beeswax wraps require proper care to maintain their functionality. Cleaning them with cold water and mild soap is necessary, and they should be stored away from heat sources to prevent the wax from melting.

Limited Availability: While the popularity of beeswax wraps is increasing, they may not be as readily available as traditional plastic wrap in all locations. This could pose a challenge for those looking to make an immediate switch.

DIY: Making your own beeswax cloths is a rewarding and sustainable DIY project that allows you to reduce waste and customize the wraps according to your needs. Here's a simple step-by-step guide on how to make your own beeswax cloths:

The recipe ration for making beeswax cloths can vary based on personal preference and the desired characteristics of the wraps.  However, a commonly used ration is: Beeswax 1 part, Jojoba Oil 1 part, Tree Resin typically around ¼ to ½ part.  This is the general guideline, and you can adjust the ratio based on factors such as the fabric type, the level of stickiness you desire, and the climate in your area.  Keep in mind that adding more tree resin can increase the tackiness of the wraps.

When melting these ingredients together, it's essential to achieve a smooth mixture and to start with a small batch to test the results.  It's a bit of trial and error until you end up with the results you desire.

Materials Needed:

Cotton Fabric: Choose a lightweight, 100% cotton fabric. Cut it into the desired sizes for your wraps. Popular choices include squares or rectangles ranging from small to large.

Beeswax: The primary ingredient.  It provides the wraps with a water-resistant and protective coating. Purchase natural and pure beeswax. You can find beeswax in blocks, pellets, or grated form. Ensure it is free from additives and other substances.

Jojoba Oil: Adds Flexibility to the wraps, preventing them from becoming too stiff. It also helps in distributing the wax evenly on fabric. It's an important ingredient in the wax mixture. Get a high-quality, organic jojoba oil.

Tree Resin (Optional): Improves the adhesiveness of the wraps. If you prefer wraps that stick firmly to surfaces, you can add a small amount of food grade tree resin. While optional, it can be added for improved adhesion. Look for food-grade resin.

Parchment Paper: Protect your work surface by using parchment paper during the waxing process.

Grater and Double Boiler:  A grater for grating bulk beeswax and a double boiler for melting beeswax works well.

Brush or Cloth: A brush or old cloth is needed to evenly distribute the wax mixture onto the fabric.

Directions:

Cut Fabric: Cut your cotton fabric into the desired sizes. Make sure the fabric is clean and free from any residues.

Prepare Work Area: Cover your work surface with parchment paper to protect it from the beeswax. Ensure good ventilation.

Melt Beeswax:  If using a grater, grate the beeswax. If using a double boiler, melt the beeswax. Add jojoba oil (and tree resin if desired) to the melted beeswax and stir well to create a smooth mixture.

Apply Wax Mixture: Place a fabric piece on the parchment paper. Using a brush or cloth, evenly distribute the wax mixture over the fabric. Make sure to cover the entire surface, reaching the edges.

Remove Excess Wax: Lift the fabric and allow excess wax to drip off. You want a thin, even coating. Be careful not to oversaturate the fabric.

Set and Cool: Allow the wraps to cool and the wax to solidify. This usually takes a few minutes. You can hang them or lay them flat during this process.

Test and Adjust: Once cooled, test the wraps by folding and shaping them around various items. If needed, you can add more wax to areas that may seem thin.

Store and Use: Your homemade beeswax cloths are now ready to use. Store them in a cool place and use them for wrapping food, covering containers, or any other use you would typically use plastic wrap for.

Care and Maintenance:
- Wash the wraps with mild soap and cold water. Avoid hot water, as it can melt the wax.
- Air-dry the wraps after washing.
- Refresh the wraps by reapplying the wax mixture if they lose their stickiness over time.

In conclusion, beeswax cloth offers a promising eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, with its reusable and biodegradable nature.  However, users should be aware of its limitations, such as a finite lifespan and specific usage restrictions.  Ultimately, incorporating beeswax wraps into daily life can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle, provided users are willing to embrace the learning curve associated with their used.

Please check out Part I – Call to Action: Unveiling the Shocking Reality of Kitchen Waste                                                     Part II - Call to Action: What We Can Do in Our Home Kitchens

Image by Rika Cossey from Pixabay

To recap the data from Part I of this post series, the following data came from the CalRecycle report that covers the year 2021. Brace yourself for the mind-boggling figures that lay bare the extent of our kitchen waste problem:

- 1,587,268 tons of Food Non-meat Not Donatable
-     919,601 tons of Inedible Food
-     615,133 tons of Vegetative Potentially Donatable Food
-     577,199 tons of Packaged Nonperishable Potentially Donatable Food
-     339,542 tons of Meat Not Donatable Food
-     114,977 tons of Cooked/Baked/Prepared Perishable Items Potentially Donatable Food
-     111,229 tons of Meat Potentially Donatable Food
-       98,000 tons of Eggs, Dairy, and Dairy Alternatives Potentially Donatable Food

-     231,072 tons of Plastic Grocery and Other Merchandise Bags
-     203,940 tons of Plastic Film Products
-       35,207 tons of Paper Grocery Bags
-       15,464 tons of Flexible Plastic Pouches

In an era marked by discussions on global food scarcity and environmental issues, it becomes imperative for us to shoulder the responsibility for our humanitarian and ecological impact, all while exercising caution in the way we handle food. Our kitchens stand as a prime arena where we hold the potential to bring about substantial change. Whether it's minimizing plastic packaging or curbing food waste, there exist numerous measures we can adopt to cut down on waste and champion a lifestyle that is more attuned to sustainability. Let's delve into how we can contribute our share:

Choose Sustainable Packaging: The prevalence of plastic packaging has contributed significantly to environmental pollution. To combat this issue, consumers can opt for products with eco-friendly packaging. Look for items that use minimal or recyclable packaging materials, such as glass, paper, or cardboard.

Home Food Preservation: Opt for bulk purchases to minimize packaging waste and maximize the output from your vegetable gardens and fruit trees. Share the surplus with others, and when faced with an abundance, explore home food preservation methods. Freezing, dehydrating, or canning are effective ways to extend the shelf life of perishables. For additional insights, visit our website for workshops and valuable information on home food preservation. Link  

Embrace Reusable Alternatives:  Plastic food wrap is a common item in kitchens, but its single-use nature contributes to landfill problems. Swap out plastic wrap for reusable alternatives like beeswax wraps or silicone food covers. These options not only reduce waste but also save money in the long run. Check out  Beeswax Food Wraps Alternative to Film Wrap

Mindful Grocery Shopping: Reduce your kitchen waste by being more intentional about your grocery shopping. Plan meals in advance, create shopping lists, and stick to them. By buying only what you need, you can minimize the likelihood of food spoilage and waste. Additionally, consider supporting local farmers' markets and bring your own reusable bags.

Proper Food Storage: Proper food storage plays a crucial role in preventing spoilage and waste. Invest in quality airtight containers to keep food fresh for longer periods. Store perishables in the refrigerator or freezer at the recommended temperatures and be mindful of the expiration dates on products. By extending the shelf life of your food, you can significantly reduce the number of discarded items.

Composting: Turning kitchen scraps into compost is an effective way to divert organic waste from landfills. Start a compost bin for fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and other biodegradable materials. The resulting compost can be used to enrich soil and promote healthy plant growth in your garden. To learn more about composting visit our San Joaquin Master Gardener Webpage and composting with worms page.

Educate and Involve Family Members: Encourage a collective effort by educating family members about the importance of reducing kitchen waste. Involve everyone in the household in sustainable practices, such as separating recyclables, composting, and minimizing food waste. Creating a shared commitment to sustainability will make these habits more effective and long-lasting.

Support Companies with Sustainable Practices: Choose to support companies and brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for businesses that use eco-friendly packaging, engage in recycling programs, or have initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. By aligning your purchases with eco-conscious companies, you contribute to the demand for more sustainable practices in the marketplace.

 

In conclusion reducing kitchen waste is a collective effort that requires conscious choices and sustainable practices. By embracing eco-friendly alternatives, practicing mindful grocery shopping, and involving your household in the process, you can contribute to a healthier planet. Each small action in the kitchen adds up, and together we can make a substantial impact on reducing waste and building a more sustainable future.

Please check out Part I –Call to Action: Unveiling the Shocking Reality of Kitchen Waste

 

Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay

In a quest to understand the staggering impact of kitchen (commercial and residential) waste on California's landfills, I delved into the eye-opening data provided by the CalRecycle report for the year 2021. Brace yourself for the mind-boggling figures that lay bare the extent of our kitchen waste problem. These numbers not only reveal the sheer magnitude of our discarded food, paper, and plastic, but also prompt reflection on the stark contrast between our excess and the hunger endured by those less fortunate.

  

 The Astonishing Data: Let's dissect the numbers from the CalRecycle report:

- 1,587,268 tons of Food Non-meat Not Donatable
-     919,601 tons of Inedible Food
-     615,133 tons of Vegetative Potentially Donatable Food
-     577,199 tons of Packaged Nonperishable Potentially Donatable Food
-     339,542 tons of Meat Not Donatable Food
-     114,977 tons of Cooked/Baked/Prepared Perishable Items Potentially Donatable Food
-     111,229 tons of Meat Potentially Donatable Food
-       98,000 tons of Eggs, Dairy, and Dairy Alternatives Potentially Donatable Food

-     231,072 tons of Plastic Grocery and Other Merchandise Bags
-     203,940 tons of Plastic Film Products
-       35,207 tons of Paper Grocery Bags
-       15,464 tons of Flexible Plastic Pouches

The Impact: A Heart-Wrenching Reality These staggering numbers, particularly in the context of food waste, are nothing short of astounding. Imagine the sheer volume of perfectly edible food that could have nourished those facing hunger and malnutrition. It's a haunting realization that, in California, a world of abundance, there are still individuals going to bed hungry every night.

A Call to Action: This revelation serves as a powerful call to action. We cannot turn a blind eye to the disconnect between our wasteful habits and the pressing needs of those less fortunate. It's time to challenge ourselves to be more mindful consumers, to rethink our approach to food, and to actively work towards reducing the unconscionable waste generated in our kitchens.

In conclusion, as we grapple with the shocking reality of kitchen waste, let this be a catalyst for change. Together, we can transform our kitchens into hubs of sustainability, minimizing waste, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it the most. It's not just about statistics; it's about empathy, responsibility, and the power we hold to shape a more compassionate and sustainable future.

Please check out Part II – Call to Action: What We Can Do in Our Home Kitchens

Image by MD Rajibul Islam from Pixabay