March 23, 2012, Boston – Millions of Americans are going to see – and
taste – a whole lot of delicious, healthy whole grains on April 4, the
first ever National Whole Grain Sampling Day, organized by Boston-based
non-profit Oldways and its Whole Grains Council (WGC).
March 23, 2012, Boston – Millions of Americans are going to see – and
taste – a whole lot of delicious, healthy whole grains on April 4, the
first ever National Whole Grain Sampling Day, organized by Boston-based
non-profit Oldways and its Whole Grains Council (WGC). On that day,
consumers will find opportunities to try delicious whole grain foods
everywhere they go. Supermarkets, foodservice outlets, restaurants, food
companies and other organizations are joining the celebration and
providing incentives to try whole grains, including free samples,
coupons, and whole grain gifts with purchase.
"On National Whole Grain Sampling Day, you might be offered a taste of a
new whole grain pretzel at the supermarket, try a delicious quinoa
salad at your office cafeteria or get handed a free granola bar while
walking to work," said Cynthia Harriman, Director of Food and Nutrition
Strategies for the Whole Grains Council and Oldways. "We invite everyone
to taste at least one new whole grain on April 4 or share one with
their family at the dinner table. Our goal, at the end of the day, is to
have people everywhere saying, 'That was great! Whole grains, where
have you been all my life?' "
Studies show that switching to whole grains lowers the risk of many
chronic diseases. While benefits are most pronounced for those consuming
at least three servings daily, some studies show reduced risks from as
little as one serving daily – so every whole grain in the diet helps.
Partners include Arby's, McDonald's, several supermarket chains, Indian
Harvest, Cooking Light magazine and Compass Group, which plans to offer
tastings in a variety of settings including corporate cafes, healthcare
facilities, public and independent schools.
"Tastings are a great way to reduce the fear of the unknown that some
customers have when trying a new food. We use this strategy often to
introduce new healthful foods. We are excited to participate in the
first Whole Grain Sampling Day," said Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RD,
vice-president Nutrition and Wellness for Compass North America, which
serves more than six million diners daily.
In Boston, home of Oldways and the Whole Grains Council, the
organization is partnering with Boston Duck Tours to commandeer a duck
boat on April
4 to hand out whole grain samples, "Just Ask for Whole Grains" buttons, and more, throughout the city.
Whole grain consumption is on the rise, due in large part to increased
availability of a wide range of delicious and healthy grains for every
palate. According to SPINS, a market research and consulting firm, sales
of natural foods and beverages with the Whole Grain Stamp increased 9.9
per cent over the last year.
Everyone is encouraged to join in the whole grain conversation on
Twitter throughout the day by using the hashtag #SampleWholeGrains.
The Whole Grains Council is listing all participating activities and
promotions on its website. To see all the organizations already
committed, visit the Whole Grain Sampling Day page of the WGC website.
Please contact Rachel Greenstein (rachel@oldwayspt.org or 617-896-4888) for more information.
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