Blogs

Your kitchen is the heart of your household. It is a place where you prepare healthy and delicious meals for your family by maintaining proper kitchen hygiene. An unhygienic cooking space attracts cockroaches and rats that make your cooking area a hub of diseases. Keeping your kitchen unclean can lead to unhealthy cooking and can make your family prone to several diseases like food poisoning, stomach infection and many more.

When you talk about cooking hygiene, it is not just the worktops that you need to keep clean but, your hands too. It is because your hands can easily spread bacteria onto food and make you ill. In this blog, we discuss a few ways in which you can easily maintain hygiene in cooking and keeping your kitchen spanking clean.

How to Maintain Hygiene in Kitchen?

Maintaining kitchen hygiene is important to avoid food borne diseases. Keeping our hands clean is not enough. There are several other factors to keep in mind to make sure that you serve fresh and healthy food to your loved ones. Even the rugs or spoon holders that you use in the kitchen are a storehouse of germs. Considering these factors, we provide some easy tips to help you maintain hygiene in the kitchen.

Clean the Kitchen Rags Regularly

Kitchen rags are a must-have to make your work easy. However, wet or greasy kitchen rags are a storehouse of germs and bacteria. When you clean the kitchen tops with the dirty rags, you unknowingly spread bacteria and other germs on the kitchen surface. These germs are easily transferred to the food items when you keep them on the kitchen tops when preparing food. As a result, if you don’t clean them properly, you are potentially exposing yourself to harmful germs. Make sure that you periodically sanitize the cloth that you use to wipe the kitchen counter and utensils. Wash all the kitchen cloth that includes, scrubbers, mitten, aprons, and counter wipe regularly.

Segregate the Chopping Boards

Another kitchen tool that is a storehouse of germs is the chopping board. We use the chopping board to slice and cut vegetables, fruits, and meat. Instead of using a single chopping board for veggies and meat, use separate cutting boards. The reason is fruits and certain vegetables, especially those used in salads are consumed raw. Cutting these on a board that was previously used for cutting meat, poultry, or seafood can expose you to harmful bacteria like salmonella (a common bacterium found in uncooked meat). Although treatable, exposure to these bacteria can lead to severe illnesses.

Prepare Dough for Roti’s Hygienically

Making dough for roti manually is not only messy but also unhygienic. To save yourself from these hassles, you can use a modern appliance like atta maker. The innovative appliance automatically kneads the perfect dough for rotis, bread, and pizza. The automatic operation of the appliance ensures that you don’t need to touch the dough. Easy to store and use, atta maker is a smart appliance that will reduce your time in the kitchen.

Wash Vegetables and Fruits Thoroughly

Owning a vegetable and fruit purifier is the best solution to keep your veggies and fruits clean. However, if you don’t own one, before consumption, soak the vegetables and fruits in salt water for about half an hour. Wash them in running water before you start with the cutting and cooking process. Saltwater removes the traces of harmful pesticides and insecticides from fruits & vegetables that may be a coating on it.

Periodically Clean the Kitchen Cabinets and Refrigerator

Clean the kitchen cabinets and refrigerator once a week to make sure that you throw away rotten food items. To ensure proper air circulation in the fridge, make sure there is always ample space available, and not stuffed with useless food items. If there is any rotten food, throw away items immediately. Expired and rotten produce leave an unpleasant stench on the kitchen cabinets and refrigerator.

Concluding Thoughts

Following these tips will make it easy to keep the kitchen clean and hygienic. Always remember to wash your hands before getting started with the cooking process and wear gloves while washing the dishes to prevent your skin from encountering harmful chemicals present in the dish.

Cheers to a Healthy Life!

Are you thinking about taking a cooking class, but don't know if it's worth it? Here are some reasons why you should pursue a cooking class...

1. Cooking classes are fun

Having fun, meeting new people and simply enjoying a new experience are all great reasons to enroll in a cooking class. Whether you sign up as a couple, with your best friend or for a mother-daughter experience, you're sure to have a few laughs.

2. Cooking classes teach you new things

You can watch all the cooking TV shows you want, but nothing gives you the hands-on experience of being in a real live class with a real live teacher. You can learn from an instructor who does things in real time without "the magic of TV" speeding up all the steps — talk about hard to follow!

Your instructor can also coach you on proper techniques while answering your cooking questions — and there's no need to rewind your DVR.

3. Cooking classes allow you to try new foods

Who knows, you may have a hidden flair for rolling sushi or be able to cook Thai dishes worthy of royalty, but how will you know unless you take a class? Often, cooking dishes outside of your own culture come with scads of new — and sometimes expensive — ingredients that you don't already have in your kitchen.

An exotic cooking class can get your feet wet and see if you enjoy a special type of cooking without breaking the bank.

4. Cooking classes improve your palette

In a cooking class you not only get to cook interesting dishes, you get to sample them as well. Bonus points if you sign up for a class that teaches you about pairing wines, as you'll get to sip those all evening as well.

5. Cooking classes make a unique date night

Tired of dinner and a movie? A cooking class is a fun way to differentiate from your usual Friday night routine. Surprise your honey by signing up for a class or make it a monthly ritual.

6. Cooking classes teach you to perfect a dish

Everybody needs a go-to, signature dish to wow guests at birthday gatherings and family get-togethers alike. How cool would it be if your perfect dish is gourmet instead of the same-old tater tot casserole?

Pay attention during the class and so you can replicate the dish from the comfort of your own kitchen, even without a professional chef looking over your shoulder.

7. Cooking classes teach you to cook like a pro

Have you ever wondered how TV chef's make that flame erupt from the pan without burning the food - or their eyebrows? Or do you wish you knew how to chop 300 carrots a minute? A cooking class can teach new techniques that can make you look and feel like a pro.

How to choose between cooking classes

When deciding which cooking class is right for you, you need to decide what your goals are.

Are you hoping to experiment with a new type of cuisine? If so, maybe a sushi making or Indian cuisine class is for you.

Or, are you a novice who can barely use a can opener? Then maybe a beginner's class that covers the basics is what you need.

The length of the class ranges from a one evening experience, which is more social in nature, to semester-long courses at culinary institutes, for those considering a career.

Whatever your motivation for wanting to take a class, you're sure to have good food and great fun. Besides, if in the end you decide you prefer take-out or cooking from the box, that's okay too — at least you gave cooking the old college try, right?

What we eat directly impacts our bodies and overall. Food affects everything from our energy levels and mood, to our weight and ability to complete tasks. What we put into our bodies is what sustains us throughout the day, so it’s important to eat nutrient-packed foods that will set us up with an energized body and positive attitude. It is also important to realize that nutrition is a huge factor in staying healthy and avoiding potential diseases or other issues.

Let’s look at some tips to help you adopt a healthier, balanced diet:

• Plan Ahead – We often find ourselves relying on outside food multiple times a week, whether its grabbing lunch at work or going out to get a bite for dinner. With work, family, friends, and commitments it’s convenient to buy meals on the go. By planning meals out at the beginning of the week, we avoid last-minute unhealthy choices. Packing a lunch and cooking dinner will allow you to choose healthier options and improve the quality of your food intake.
• Pack Snacks – It’s always a good idea to have a few healthy snack options with you so you can avoid a situation where you are desperate for food and have to turn to an unhealthy option. Pack a bag of nuts or fruits, and have it with you in case you need a quick snack.
• Focus on Healthier Foods – Eating healthier foods will hugely benefit your overall health. Not only will your waist size thank you, but your energy levels will be higher, and you will work more efficiently and effectively throughout the day. Focus on eating protein and nutrient-rich foods like fish, lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and try to avoid foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fats, sugars and cholesterol such as deserts and baked goods.
• Improve Your Eating Habits – A great way to improve your diet is to become conscious of your eating habits and identify routines that are unhealthy and unnecessary. One of the most common habits is eating when you are bored. Asking yourself if you are hungry before grabbing a snack is a good way to avoid consuming unnecessary calories. Another good habit to adopt is to take your time while eating. This way you will be more likely to notice when you are actually satisfied than if you wolf down your meal and find yourself with a stomach ache because you ate too much.
• Choose Water – Avoid drinking juices or sodas. Though they satisfy and energize you in the moment, they contain a ton of sugar that will actually leave you feeling slow and lethargic soon after. Additionally, the sugar in those drinks adds unnecessary calories to your body. Try to replace unhealthy drinks with water. Water will quench your thirst and keep you hydrated, healthy, and energized.

Remember that the types of foods that we put into our bodies are what fuels us throughout the day. Nutrition matters, so choose foods that will set you up for success! Work to become aware of your eating habits, and adopt a healthier and more balanced diet to make sure you are taking care of yourself.

From – Somos Community Care

There are incredible benefits to staying active and not allowing life to take over. The world we live in screams non-involvement and complacency, so how do we reply? Escaping into our homes after work every day is not the answer. We can enjoy a better lifestyle and attitude by improving our health, and there are plenty of activities that you can choose from to stimulate your physical system adding more happiness to your life.

Regardless of age or fitness level, research shows that everyone from mall-walkers to professionals receives fantastic benefits from consistent activity. When you are aware of the benefits, getting inspired to participate in some sort of physical activity every day makes it all seem worthwhile.

Learning From Your Childhood, Whether Active or Inactive

As a child I was extremely active, running, swimming, playing sports and more, but when I got into my twenties, work and college consumed my day and my activity level dropped. After I graduated from college, I joined a gym and went religiously five times a week; I enjoyed working out with others who also liked to workout, and I became addicted to the stress release and dopamine rush that I got, but I was healthy and rarely got sick; I generally felt good.

After 10 years of working out at the gym, I found that I could get a great aerobic workout while burning excess calories just as easily by walking, jogging, bicycling and swimming, and I could do them on my own schedule.

Choosing Exercise that brings the Best Results

Many people join a gym to build muscle and generally promote better health, but studies show that any exercise that accelerates the heart rate for 30 minutes accomplishes the goal. Choosing activities that work for you is key to your program because if you like them, you will be committed to doing them. Staying consistent with your exercise is significant to staying fit, and though professionals may suggest the gym or a workout video are the only "real" ways to stay fit, organized exercise is just one way.

Walking, running, biking, swimming, dancing or playing a game of tennis for a least a half-hour will significantly accelerate your heart rate, though it is doing the activity daily that is the prescription for a lifetime of wellness. To stay in your best health, switch between two or three favorite exercises during the month. This proves to be more effective than doing the same one for years.

The reason for this is that in the workout you want to involve every muscle group, and one exercise typically only focuses on a certain set of muscles. For example, doing push-ups every day for a year will build super biceps and triceps, but doesn't stimulate circulation to every organ and cell, which is the goal of a successful routine.

We are made of four major areas: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual, and consistent exercise will improve all four. We get satisfaction, whether conscious or subconscious when one of these areas receives good attention like participating in a vigorous activity. Exercising with a partner may satisfy all four areas for some people. This satisfaction comes from on-purpose activity for a half hour every day, and the longer you are at it, the better you'll feel.

Benefits of Staying Fit with Consistent and Fun Activities

Lowers Stress Levels

The office and the traffic can get overwhelming, but with a 30-minute workout, walking on the treadmill or taking a half-hour bike ride, tension and stress that collects in muscles and joints, and causes headaches is released. What a relief!

Promotes Weight Loss

Let's not forget the calories that burn off, and the weight that begins to melt off with consistent exercise.

Improves the function of your mind

The brain is simply another muscle, so stimulating exercise and a nutritious diet will keep it performing well. Studies show that working out between age 25 and 45 boosts the chemicals in the brain for both long and short term memory, and staying active after 45 maintains proper functioning for a lifetime

Deletes worry from the brain

Physical exercise naturally relaxes muscles and knots of tension that build up over several days, and good activity also increases norepinephrine, a chemical that calms the brain in response to stress. Endorphins are also released, so it's a Win-Win.

Is a boost for self-confidence

Typically, after exercising and a shower, you will feel like a million bucks! On a very basic level, physical fitness boosts self-esteem and promotes a positive self-image that will quickly elevate your perspective and give you a healthy glow.

Helps memory

Regular physical activity keeps the blood flow strong, which improves the ability to learn new things as well as memory. The brain is a muscle, and increased blood flow for a limited time daily keeps the production of cells high in the hippocampus, which is where memory and learning abilities are located. Research has proven that running improved memory and new learning vocabulary in both adults and children. This explains why children and adults need regular exercise.

Get more done during the day

I know it sounds crazy, but when you give up a half-hour out of your day to activate your body and relax your mind, that half-hour allows you to answer some of the day's pressing problems, which saves you time in the long run. With distractions out of the way, it's much easier to tap into your creative nature. What a workout!

Inspiration to others

Research shows that most people perform better when they have a loyal workout buddy. See if your mate or friend would like to join you.

Staying Active is a Healthy Alternative

The positive benefits from staying active far outweigh the inconvenience or being too tired. Find a time and an aerobic activity that fits your schedule and make it part of your lifestyle. When you regularly connect with that place in yourself that is peaceful and calm, the benefits will materialize.

You can use the benefits listed here, staying in shape, reduced bouts of sickness, self-confidence and thinking clearer as motivation for a better life. The opportunities to choose from are endless, and this perfect time for those sitting on the fence of participation to choose an activity and get started.

Source – LifestylePlus.net

1. Get outdoors.Be active outdoors daily since we absorb many essential nutrients from the sun, especially vitamin D. We can also glean some of the sun nutrients by eating food that is grown in the sun, such as fruit, berries, herbs, and vegetables, preferably organic. Expose your arms and legs to the sun (without sunscreen) for about 30 minutes 3 times a week for optimal vitamin D levels.
2. Breathe fresh air.Oxygen is obviously essential to health and life in general, but most people are oxygen deprived due to shallow breathing habits. Be mindful to take full, deep breaths and exhale completely, especially when outdoors in the fresh air. Interestingly, the best way to get adequate oxygen to every cell in the body is by staying fully hydrated.
3. Drink enough water.  Drink plenty of clean, filtered water to keep your body hydrated, to help metabolize food, and to flush out toxins. The general guideline is to drink a minimum of 8 eight-ounce glasses a day OR half of your body weight in ounces.
4. Balance your foods. Eat a balance of carbohydrate (primarily vegetables and a small amount of fruit), lean or plant-based protein, and healthy fats throughout the day. Your nutrient requirements depend on your individual metabolic needs, so choosing a variety of foods is your best bet.
5. Combine food wisely.Avoid combining meat protein with starchy carbohydrates (such as bread or potatoes) at the same meal. Instead choose lean protein (such as turkey, chicken, tuna or veggie burgers) with a variety of raw vegetables or salad. Or choose an open-faced vegetarian sandwich on sprouted grain bread, with hummus, nut butter, avocado or cheese topped with lettuce or sprouts.

 Source – Mayo Clinic.

Taking the time to teach your kids about nutrition is one of the best steps you can take to help support healthy growth

As a parent, you want your children to have the healthiest food possible, but good nutrition for kids goes beyond what's being served at the kitchen table today. Even though your kids might need your help now, they'll be making their own decisions about food before you know it.

Pediatric nutrition research scientist with Abbott gives insight on how you can give them some direction for solid nutrition education.

Keep It Age Appropriate

You know that kids' growth requires a healthy diet with plenty of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, but how do you translate that information into kid-speech?

Younger children tend to do best with simple explanations that are easy to remember. Instead of trying to explain the science, tell them that "milk helps your bones grow" or "pasta gives you the energy to run faster" and helpful reminders like "eat the colors of the rainbow" to get the vitamins you need to stay healthy. Use a helpful tool like the graphic below to help your little one understand the food groups.

Older Children

Older children can handle more detailed information, and to keep it engaging, you might focus on everyday examples that are relatable to them. Next time your child asks why you're having chicken for dinner again, you can explain that chicken is packed with protein to provide the building blocks for muscle — which could help with performance on the soccer field. When your child is fighting a cold, offer a bowl of fresh fruit and let them know that fruits and vegetables contain key antioxidants that can help their immune system.

Snack Smart

When you're trying to steer your child toward better food choices, it can be tempting to focus only on breakfast, lunch and dinner meals, but snacks can have a big impact, too. [According to recent National Health And Nutrition Examination survey data, for U.S. children, ages 2-5 years, snacks can make up about 30 percent of daily calories, and many of those snacks are often from low-nutrient snacks, desserts and candy.

Help your kids make better choices throughout the day by packing their bags with snacks that provide vitamins and minerals, protein and healthy fiber. Fresh fruit and yogurt, celery with peanut butter or trail mix/protein bars are all great examples of healthy snacks that kids will love. And, don't be afraid to offer the occasional treat — a good balance can help teach kids to make healthy choices down the road.

Help Kids Cook

Kids are more likely to be interested in healthy foods if you make nutrition fun. Many kids love helping their parent's shop at the grocery store — turn it into a teachable moment and help them understand how to choose different types of food. Meal prep is also an easy way to engage kids of any age. Ask your little one to stir a bowl of pancake batter or to tear lettuce leaves for salad. Older kids can take on more complicated tasks like peeling and dicing veggies and measuring ingredients.

Involving kids in food shopping and preparation not only teaches them valuable life skills, it also helps them learn about what goes into their favorite foods.

Teach Healthy Habits

Good nutrition means getting all the vitamins and minerals you need, but it also means enjoying lots of different foods. Make time for relaxed family meals that give your children the opportunity to really appreciate the food you prepare. Not only do they give you time to bond, regular meals help to establish a healthy eating schedule with a few snacks in between meals rather than grazing or eating small amounts throughout the day.

Eating together and talking about the way food tastes and what goes into it can also help kids develop a healthy relationship with food and eating. Because it takes time for fullness signals to travel from the stomach to the brain, slower, more mindful meals teach kids to tap into their sense of satiety to prevent overeating.

When it comes to nutrition for kids' growth, the most persuasive message of all may be nonverbal. Parents are a powerful influence in shaping children's food preferences and habits. If you prepare, eat and enjoy lots of nutritious foods, the chances are good that your child will eventually follow your healthy example.

Source – Abbott

While there’s no avoiding the weather, it’s not that difficult—or expensive—to stock up on basic items in case you lose power or are temporarily unable to leave your home. 

When it comes to hurricanes, an integral part of your emergency preparedness checklist is food. 

An emergency food supply is extremely important because, in the aftermath of a major hurricane, basic necessities are often hard to come by. Once you survive the storm, you still need to survive until your area returns to normal 

You should create a survival food list before hurricane season even begins so you are familiar with what to purchase ahead of times. When meteorologists forecast hurricanes, hysteria can set in weeks before landfall. The faster you get to the supermarket to buy supplies the less stressful the whole experience is and the more likely you are to get the things you need. When it comes to weather-related disasters, planning is everything. Here are 10 you should consider on your to buy list: 

1. Bottled Water

The most important thing you can have on hand before a hurricane strikes is water. This is the number one item on any food survival list because you can easily lose access to drinking water during a natural disaster. It could be days – even weeks – before the water from your sink is safe again. If it’s not contaminated, there is a chance it’s cut off completely. 

The average person needs 1 gallon of water per day. You actually need more than this in hot weather. make sure you stock up on at least a three-day supply per person in your home when a hurricane is coming. The more water the better. 

2. Apples & Oranges

Apples stored in a cool, dark place can last for several weeks. This makes them one of the best fresh foods to buy in advance of a hurricane. They are full of potassium, fiber, vitamin C, and water which are all important for hurricane survivors without potable water, electricity, or means of transportation. Oranges are another great fruit to have on hand. While they only last two weeks in comparison to apples when stored at room temperature, they provide a high dose of vitamin C. They also include calcium, potassium, and water. If you’re going to buy fruits, buy these two! 

3. Dried and Canned Fruits

The next item on our hurricane emergency rations list is dried and canned fruits. While fresh apples and oranges are ideal, dried and canned fruits can also supply you with nutrients during a natural disaster like a hurricane. Try to buy fruits with no gels, syrups, added sugar, or artificial sweetener. Read labels carefully and always try to get apples and oranges fresh if you can. 

4. Canned Meats

While canned fruits are good, so are canned meats. Canned tuna, salmon, and sardines are great sources of protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Sardines are actually a great source of calcium as well. These are great alternatives to other meats that you won’t be able to cook without power during a hurricane or other natural disaster. 

5. Canned Vegetables

The third canned items on our list that is perfect for hurricane preparedness is canned vegetables. Ready-to-eat canned vegetables like green beans and soups can be very nutritious, as long as you purchase “low sodium” versions. Be wary. A lot of times canned foods are loaded with sodium, which is not only unhealthy in a normal setting but can make you thirstier as well. 

6. Vitamins

Since there’s a high chance you won’t be able to eat meals normally, you may have to stock up on vitamins to make sure you are getting the necessary nutrients every day. Experts recommend a two week supply of vitamins for everyone in your house. Multivitamins are great, but if any family member have special medical conditions those vitamins need to be included as well. 

7. Nuts

If you don’t have power to make chicken or steak, don’t’ fear. Nuts are packed with protein. They are actually one of the healthiest pantry foods you can have on hand in case of an emergency. Nuts are also full of healthy fats. Just make sure you buy unsalted nuts because you don’t want to get thirstier than you already are. Trail mixes are also a good way to go to get some sugar added into your diet as well with raisins and candies. 

8. Power Bars/Protein Bars

If you don’t have power and can’t cook full meals, protein bars are a great way to get the necessary nutrients. If you’re lacking in caloric intake, protein bars will give you a big dose of calories. The best part is these come in small, nonperishable packaging so you can eat them anytime. 

9. Comfort Foods

The last real food on our survival food list are comfort foods. Hurricanes and other natural disasters are very stressful events. It’s difficult to go about your day-to-day with no potable water, no electricity, and no safe transportation. It’s always good to have your family’s comfort foods on hand to lessen the burden of the weather-related stress. If these comfort foods need electricity it’s still a good idea to get them for once you get power back. Trust us, it makes a big difference! 

10. Paper plates and utensils

A lot of times, clean water is not accessible after a hurricane. That makes washing dishes a tough job. To avoid this problem, purchase paper plates and plastic utensils ahead of time to ensure an easy and safe clean up. While you’re at it, make sure you get garbage bags as well.

Western Wholesale Inc. can help you prepare. A hurricane kit will be available in store soon for purchase. 

BE PREPARED FOR HURRICANE SEASON! 

Byrne – who has been working in the roofing business for nearly 25 years – said the average temperature in Glendale, Arizona during the summer is about 115 degrees. 

"Basically at 100 degrees, it's not too bad," he said. "At about 110 [degrees], you start feeling it, and at 120 [degrees], you start losing productivity." 

The company holds monthly safety meetings on heatstroke and exhaustion to remind its staff of smart protocol.  

Here are some strategies Bryne and his roofing employees use to stay cool. Adapt them to fit your needs whether you're outside all day or working in your garden for the afternoon.

1. Hydration is key 

Hydrating at frequent intervals is critical, rather than waiting until you’re at your maximum thirst. 

“The minute you think you need a drink, stop and take the drink right then,” Byrne said. “If you don't you'll end up getting heat exhaustion.”

2. Drink cool – not cold – water

This distinction makes all the difference. Byrne described the sensation from drinking extremely cold water like getting a brain freeze from a Slurpee, except amplified.

3. Start early

If you’re working outside, make every effort to start before the sun comes up or at least before it’s reached its peak. 

His company routinely starts work at about 5 a.m., and the crews try to finish up by 1 p.m., says Byrne.

4. Stay wet

If he notices that somebody has stopped sweating, Byrne recognizes it as the first sign of heat exhaustion. He’s experienced it more than once. 

"No matter what that individual is doing, he needs to go sit in the shade, sip some water – just sip it, don't chug it – and just get yourself off the roof and in the shade," he said. 

When working with metal roofing, Byrne said, he brings a hose up and douses himself with water to stay cool.

5. Dress strategically

Although the roofers are required to wear long sleeves, Byrne said he wears light colors to reflect the sun. 

Even the color of your footwear is significant – Byrne said white shoes versus dark shoes could mean the difference between having cool feet and feeling like you have blisters. 

Source – CNN 

Used cooking oil is one of those waste substances many people aren’t quite sure how to throw away properly.

If there’s one thing you should know about throwing away cooking oil, it’s that you should never pour it down the sink, or directly into drains. Even if you break down the oil with soap and hot water, it can re-solidify once it cools down and cause drain pipes and sewers to get blocked. The oil can also travel into waterways, including rivers, lakes and ocean where animals live. As it builds up it can cause the water’s oxygen levels to drop, which can suffocate wildlife living in it.

Saving Cooking Oil for Reuse

If you plan to deep fry soon in the future, chances are you can save the cooking oil to use again. Strain it through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth to remove any particles and crumbs, and store it in an airtight container in a dark place.

You can reuse oil only once or twice, and give it a sniff before using it; if it smells rancid, get rid of it. Remember that each time you reuse oil, the oil deteriorates and the smoke point (the temperature at which it will burn) decreases.

Safe Cooking Oil Disposal Options

If you decide not to save your cooking oil, or if it's gone bad, it's important to dispose of it properly. It's wise to check with your local solid waste department to see if they have any recommendations or regulations about disposing of oil. If you're discarding cooking oil at home, take the proper steps.

• Let the oil cool completely, then pour it into a non-recyclable container with a lid, and throw it in the garbage. Common non-recyclable containers that work well include cardboard milk cartons and similar wax- or plastic-lined paper containers as well as takeout containers.
• Freeze or refrigerate the oil first to harden it. Pour the oil in an old can and put it in the freezer. Throw away the oil when it's solid enough to come out of the can in one piece. If you have no more than a cup of oil or grease, pour it into a coffee mug and set it in the fridge. When it solidifies, scoop it out and into the trash with a spoon, then wipe out the mug with a paper towel or used napkin before washing it.
• Pour completely cooled oil into a partially filled trash bag. If you use plastic kitchen trash bags, it's usually fine to pour a moderate amount of oil into the trash already in the bag; paper towels, food scraps, and other absorbent material help contain the oil so you don't have a pool of it waiting to break out of the bottom of the bag.
• Mix the oil with an absorbent material, such as cat litter, sand or sawdust, before throwing it away. Save old oil for the next time you empty the litter box, and dump the oil into the litter.
• Consider getting a Fat Trapper system if you do a lot of frying. This is a plastic receptacle that holds foil-lined bags. Just pour the oil into the bag, and when it's full, seal the bag and throw it in the garbage. Each bag holds 32 ounces of oil.

Cooking Oil Disposal Don'ts

• Don't pour oil down the drain or in the toilet. It can clog not only your pipes but also the city sewer mains. Water contaminated with oil is difficult, sometimes impossible, to treat. This means it can eventually pollute local waterways.
• Don't add oil to a septic system. It can clog pipes and, worse, your distribution lines and drainage field.
• Don't dispose of oil in compost bins or piles. Fats, in general, are bad for compost, and cooking oil is nothing but fat.
• Don't pour hot oil into the trash.

Source – Enva & Spurce Eats

Dishwashing liquid is something many of us take for granted. We use it every day – it’s a kitchen essential – and yet very few of us actually know much about it. Do you know why it’s important to use washing up liquid? Do you know how it works? Do you know how to ensure you use it safely in your home? No? Then here’s everything you need to know: 

It’s important to use dishwashing liquid, but which one to choose? Look for a product that tackles tough grease, creates lasting bubbles (to save you using excess liquid), and is kind to your skin. 

What is Dishwashing Liquid Used For? 

Why use dishwashing liquid over plain water? Well, that’s obvious. Imagine washing your hair in water alone, or washing your clothes without using any detergent. It’s the soap that really gets dishes clean and removes any bacteria left by meats or fish. If you’ve enjoyed a cheeky fried meal, or an oily Indian curry, washing up liquid really is a lifesaver. 

Grease clings to plates like a baby clings to a bottle of warm milk, and, as you’ll know, oils are immune to the effects of water – what you need is a product that can cut through grease, leaving clean plates that are ready to be used again. Of course, dishwashing liquid isn’t just used for cleaning dishes – diluted with water it makes an excellent bubble-blowing solution, and some people even swear by dishwashing liquid/detergent for washing their hair… each to their own.

How Does Washing Up Liquid Work? 

Did you know that the way dishwashing liquid works is very clever? The solution contains molecules that have two opposing sides, one side is hydrophilic – means it loves water, and the other side is hydrophobic – which means it does everything it can to stay away from the water. 

The hydrophobic sides of the molecules clings to the grease of the dirty dishes while the hydrophilic sides try their best to get into the water. Fortunately, the hydrophilic sides are a bit stronger and the molecules are drawn into the water with the grease attached.

How to Use Dishwashing Liquid? 

There are two common ways to use dishwashing liquid: 

Dilute is filling a dishpan or sink with water and adding the liquid detergent in. It is more economical and can make your dishwashing last longer and save you money. You only need one or two squirt to create enough soap to wash all of your dirty dishes. If you add too much you’ll be fighting through the suds to find your utensils and glasses; 

Neat is applying or squirting dishwashing liquid directly into the sponge or washcloth and use it directly on the dirty dishes. Although this way is more convenient, if you’re doing this technique you are throwing away money, besides using too much of dishwashing liquid, you are also using more water to rinse it off.

After Using Dishwashing Liquid 

Once you’ve finished washing, always rinse dishes in hot or cold water – always. So why is rinsing dishes in cold water so important? Well, there are a number of reasons why you don’t want those soapy residues all over your clean dishes. 

First, allowing soap to dry onto your dishes can affect the taste of food and drink – not everyone notices, but those who are more sensitive to different tastes can definitely tell when there’s soap in the mix. Additionally, soap scum can affect the look of glass and crystal, making it look cloudy and smeared. Secondly, rinsing dishes with cold water is better for your health. 

Source – Cleanipedia

Staying healthy is not only about eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. It also has a lot to do with adopting hygienic and clean habits or routines. Here are some simple yet essential ways in which you can add to your hygiene and become healthier. 

Who doesn’t love a sparkling smile and a set of healthy teeth? 

But with unhealthy eating habits and a lazy attitude towards dental hygiene this is a dream for many. There are billions of bacteria living inside our mouths at any given time. Many of these bacteria build up as plaque, causing tooth decay (cavities) and gingivitis, which can lead to periodontal (gum) disease. For a healthy smile, you must practice good oral hygiene every day. A good oral hygiene means you can chew well and can avoid toothaches and discomfort. 

Here are a few simple ways to maintain good oral hygiene:

1. Start children early. One in four young children develops signs of tooth decay before they start school. Half of all children between the ages of 12 and 15 have cavities. Dental care should begin as soon as a child’s first tooth appears, usually around six months.
2. Use enough — but not too much — fluoride. The use of fluoride helps strengthen enamel, making it less likely to decay. Many toothpastes and mouth rinses contain fluoride. 
3. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Gum disease and tooth decay remain big problems for all age groups. Here are a few things to take care:

• Toothbrushes should be changed 3 to 4 times a year. 
• Teenagers with braces need special toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools, consult your orthodontist. 

4. Rinse after meals. In addition to brushing and flossing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial rinse/ mouthwash can help prevent decay and gum problems.
5. Block blows to teeth. Sports and recreational activities build healthy bodies, but they can pose a threat to teeth. Consult your dentist for more details on a mouth guard for contact sports activities.
6. Eat smart. At every age, a healthy diet is essential to healthy teeth and gums. A well-balanced diet of whole foods — including grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products — will provide all the nutrients you need.

Source – Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital & Medical Research Institute

Brushing and flossing are the best ways to avoid oral health issues like gingivitis. If you add mouthwash into the equation you’re set for success. Mouthwash is an effective tool in the fight against tooth decay, gingivitis, as well as the promotion of healthy teeth and gums. Here are just a couple benefits from using mouthwash. 

1. Freshens breath – First and foremost, and most obviously, mouthwash temporarily reduces bad breath. With a variety of flavours to choose from, mouthwash kills bacteria associated with causing bad breath leaving you with minty fresh breath. 

2). Prevents Plaque build-up – Various mouthwashes help prevent plaque build up on your gums, in-between teeth, and on the surface of your teeth in between brushing. Although it prevents the build up of plague, it cannot reduce the plaque that already exists on your teeth. So remember to always brush and floss to remove the plaque before it becomes a problem. 

3. Removes particles – Most people use mouthwash only after brushing. While this is a good practice, mouthwash can also be used before brushing to rinse out any loose particles in your mouth making your brushing and flossing more effective. 

4. Stop cavities from forming – With regular use of mouthwash before and after you brush and floss, you can reduce the chances of cavities forming. Mouthwashes that contain fluoride can prevent cavities and strengthen your enamel. Remember, not all mouthwashes contain fluoride. Be sure to check the label on your mouthwash before purchasing. 

With regular brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash you can keep your mouth healthy and smelling fresh. Talk with your dentist about the importance of mouthwash and find a strategy that works for you. 

Source – Martindaledental