Hi there – Trish, your Registered Dietitian Nutritionist here to tell you a little bit about this week – National Pollinator Week – and why it plays an important role in your lifestyle and wellbeing.
June 18-24th 2018 has been named National Pollinator week in an effort to recognize the role of pollinators, inform the public about the decline in pollinator populations and educate on how to protect them and create a more sustainable ecosystem.
Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, bats, and birds. Pollination occurs when pollinators such as these transport pollen grains of the same species which can result in fruit or fertile seeds for plant reproduction.
So what’s the buzz? Why is this important to me?
Without our Earth’s pollinators, successful pollination cannot occur and plants will not be able to produce fruit to thrive. Without thriving plants, our pool for food sources is in trouble.
According to Pollinator Partnership, “one of every three bites of food you eat is there because of pollinators.” And even more during these produce-rich summer months. Pollinated foods include almonds, apples, bananas, avocados, blueberries, cherries, chocolate, coconut, coffee, cranberries, grapes, melons, peaches, tomatoes and many more. These foods include some of my favorites, and probably some of yours!
For ways you can help and events going on in your area, check out this link here.
One thing you can do right now is build awareness and try this Peach and Cream Popsicle recipe!
Pollinator Peach and Cream Pop
This tasty treat is a healthy, cool way to escape our hot June, all with the help of pollinators!
Ingredients
- 3 Peaches
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt I use plain, nonfat
- 1/3 cup Agave Nectar I used this because it comes from pollinators, but you can use sugar or honey instead if you prefer
- 1/3 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
Instructions
Halve and pit the peaches
Cut half the peaches into small diced pieces and set aside.
Cut the remaining peaches into cubes and place in blender.
Add the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.
Pour blended mixture into the bowl with diced peaches and combine.
Divide evenly into popsicle molds. You can use plastic cups with popsicle sticks if you don't have molds.
Freeze until solid, for at least 5-6 hours.
Recipe Notes
You can use this all summer long for a healthy dessert. Substitute any of your favorite fruits!
