SEASONED THOUGHTS

The Surprising Story of Canola Oil Origins: Canola oil began as rapeseed oil -- a lubricant once used to keep World War II submarine engines and heavy machinery running smoothly. It wasn't originally intended for food, but for industrial use Reinvented: In the 1970s, Canadian scientists bred a new version of the rapeseed plant with lower levels of natural toxins. To make it more appealing for the food industry, they renamed it "canola" short for "Canadian oil." The new na

When I cook, one of the most important things I pay attention to is the quality of the ingredients I’m using—especially making sure they’re clean, fresh, and responsibly sourced. It’s not about being perfect, but I’ve learned that what I put into my body really does matter. I feel better when I eat better. When I use real, whole foods—things without a ton of additives or chemicals—I notice a difference. I have more energy, fewer stomach issues, and just an overall better sens

Now that you understand the benefits and flavors of organic spices, how can you incorporate them into your cooking? Here are some practical tips: Start Simple : Begin by adding a pinch of your favorite organic spice to everyday dishes. This could be sprinkling paprika on roasted vegetables or adding cumin to your soups and stews. Create Homemade Spice Blends : Combine several organic spices to create your own blends. For example, mix organic paprika, garlic powder, and onion

Shopping for groceries definitely feels like it takes longer these days, and a big reason for that is the need to read ingredient labels. It’s not just about picking up whatever looks good anymore—now we have to take the time to check what’s actually inside everything. Here’s why: 1. Health Concerns Are Top of Mind People are way more focused on health now. Whether it’s trying to avoid processed sugar, checking for trans fats, or steering clear of anything artificial, we’ve a

Hey friends! I originally started Clean Living by Judith Raye many years ago to share my journey toward living a healthier, more intentional lifestyle. At first, I focused on ditching single-use plastics and finding cleaner alternatives for things like skincare, haircare, and household products. Lately, I’ve been shifting my focus to food—specifically, being more mindful and consistent about what I eat. I’ve cut way back on sugar and stopped drinking alcohol, and I’ve explor

Reading food labels is not just about calories, fat, or sugar — it's also crucial to pay attention to chemicals and additives that may negatively impact your health. Many processed and packaged foods contain ingredients that are added to preserve shelf life, enhance flavor or color, or improve texture — but some of these can have harmful effects , especially when consumed regularly or in large amounts. Here's a deeper look into why this matters and which additives to watch o