Food Safety

Mastering Produce Storage: Tips to Reduce Food Waste

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program
Season 7, Episode 38
In this episode, host Mindy McCulley is joined by LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access with the Kentucky Nutrition Education Program. Together, they explore vital guidance on the best practices for storing fruits and vegetables effectively to minimize food waste. Share practical tips such as the importance of refrigerating pre-cut produce, separating fruits and vegetables in storage to prevent premature ripening, and optimizing refrigerator settings to preserve perishables like berries and lettuce.
The episode delves into cleaning techniques that enhance the longevity of your produce and underscores why certain storage methods, such as avoiding commercial cleaners, are beneficial. Discover which fruits are best ripened on countertops and when to transfer them to refrigeration to extend their freshness.
Tune in to understand how you can keep your produce fresh for longer and find additional resources through your local extension offices, paving the way to reducing food waste in your home.
To connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:
PlanEatMove.com
To learn more about storage recommendations, visit Plate it up! Kentucky Proud and click on the produce of your choice. Then click on one of the recipes, to try something new!
Plate it up! Kentucky Proud
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
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          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Using Black Utensils

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Season 7, Episode 37
In this episode of Talking FACS, we delve into the safety concerns surrounding black plastic kitchen utensils. Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Preservation and Food Safety, explores whether these commonly used utensils are as harmless as they seem. Recent studies have unveiled the presence of flame retardants (FRs) in black utensils, derived from recycled electronics, posing potential health risks when exposed to heat.
Annhall offers invaluable tips on selecting safe kitchen tools, recommending alternatives like wood, silicone, and BPA-free materials. Listeners will gain insights into identifying food-grade products and the importance of avoiding certain plastics. The episode also covers proper care for wooden utensils and safe practices when handling raw meat. Tune in to learn how to make informed decisions for a safer kitchen experience.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Exploring the 2025 Nutrition Education Program Calendar

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: LaToya Drake, MS Extension Specialist for Food Access, Kentucky Nutrition Education Program
Season 7, Episode 27
In this episode of Talking FACS we delve into the 2025 Nutrition Education Program Calendar with LaToya Drake, Extension Specialist for Food Access, who reveals the beautifully crafted calendar packed with enticing recipes.
Discover the process behind the calendar’s stunning food photography, emphasizing the use of real, edible food without wasteful practices. Gain insights into the cost-effective recipes, including the split pea soup and buffalo cauliflower bites, which are designed to be budget-friendly and delicious.
Learn about the innovative cooking methods featured in the calendar, such as air frying, and the diverse range of recipes that cater to various dietary needs and occasions. This episode highlights the educational aspect of the calendar, providing food safety tips, ingredient spotlights, and nutritional benefits to help listeners make informed choices.
Join us as we celebrate the role of these calendars in enhancing the nutritional habits of communities across Kentucky while offering versions accessible in Spanish to reach a broader audience. Listen and get inspired to try new recipes and cooking techniques in 2025!
To Connect with Nutrition Education Program resources, visit:
PlanEatMove.com
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Food Safety Fundamentals: Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Season 7, Episode 13
In this episode of Talking FACS, Annhall Norris unpacks the four fundamental principles of food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. Learn the importance of proper handwashing techniques, the best practices for cleaning produce, and why using a meat thermometer is crucial for cooking. Discover the necessity of separating raw and cooked foods in your grocery cart, refrigerator, and on your cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination.
Annhalll also emphasizes the significance of chilling food appropriately, including tips on safe thawing methods and the critical two-hour rule for cooked food left at room temperature. This episode is filled with practical advice to help you keep your family safe from food-borne illnesses, which affect one in six Americans each year.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and ensure your kitchen practices are up to par with food safety standards. Don't miss out on this informative session that could make a significant difference in your household's health!
For more information, visit:
Food Facts
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Packing Lunches for Healthy Enegetic Kids

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Courtney Luecking, PhD Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Season 7, Episode 7
As another school year approaches, the challenge of packing nutritious and appealing lunches looms large for many parents. Dr. Luecking provides expert advice on selecting the right lunchbox, ensuring food safety, and creating balanced meals that keep kids energized throughout the day.
Discover the magic of combining proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to fuel young bodies and minds. Learn how to navigate allergy concerns, choose the best drinks, and add colorful fruits and vegetables to make lunchboxes visually appealing. Creative strategies, like using frozen fruits to keep meals cool and involving kids in the packing process will help make mornings less hectic.
Join us for this engaging and informative discussion that will leave you equipped with practical pointers to make the school lunch break a highlight of your child's day.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel

Super Smoothies: Build a Better Smoothie

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Anna Cason, RDN Extension Associate for Nutrition and Health
Season 6, Episode 37
Smoothies are a great way to start your day or satisfy midday munchies. Anna Cason joins Talking FACS to share strategies for building a better smoothie so you maximize nutrients and ease preparation woes.  Smoothies are also a great way for using up ingredients that are nearing their expiration date!
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Extension
          Website
          Facebook
          Instagram
          FCS Learning Channel
 

Holiday Baking Tips

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Season 6, Episode 18
If "baking spirits bright" is in the plans during the next few weeks, you might want to listen to this episode of Talking FACS first.  Annhall Norris shares important information regarding the cookie dough, or rather the flour that you will use to prepare the cookie dough, that might be new information for you!  Keep your family safe and healthy during this season of delights for the taste buds!
To connect with FCS Extension:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Website
FCS Facebook
FCS Instagram
FCS Learning Channel

In the Face of Disaster - Keeping Food Safe

Host: Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Preservation and Safety
Season 5, Episode 21
In the Face of Disaster, a new publication series created by a group of Family and Consumer Sciences professionals, seeks to provide Kentuckians with the resources they need to prepare before disasters strike and the skills to cope in the aftermath of these life changing events.
Annhall Norris shares tips for ensuring that your water and food supply remains safe in the event of a natural disaster.  She reinforces the importance of well-stocked and current food and water supply kits.
To connect with FCS Extension:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Website
FCS Facebook
FCS Instagram

In the Face of Disaster - Food and Water Supplies

Host: Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Preservation and Safety
Season 5, Episode 16
In the Face of Disaster, a new publication series created by a group of Family and Consumer Sciences professionals, seeks to provide Kentuckians with the resources they need to prepare before disasters strike and the skills to cope in the aftermath of these life changing events.
Annhall Norris shares tips for securing food and water supply "emergency kits", so that if a disaster strikes your family will not suffer from a lack of essential items.  She provides guidelines for keeping your emergency kits up-to-date as well as recommendations for needs per family member per day.
To connect with FCS Extension:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Website
FCS Facebook
FCS Instagram

Fall Invaders

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Dr. Zachary DeVries, Assistant Professor of Urban Entomology, Department of Entomology
Season 5, Episode 13
No, we aren't talking about the latest Sci-Fi movie, but how to prevent our homes from being invaded by creepy crawlies.  On this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. Zach DeVries outlines a few basic steps that homeowners can take to keep out bugs when temperatures start to drop.  He shares that the fall is an ideal time to pest-proof our homes to ensure that while we are overwintering and staying warm and toasty, we aren't also keeping colonies of insects warm and dry too.
For more information:
How to Pest-Proof Your Home
Pest-Proofing Your Home
To connect with FCS Extension:
Kentucky Extension Offices
UK FCS Website
FCS Facebook
FCS Instagram

Serving Up a Holiday Tradition - Kentucky Country Ham

Host: Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Food Preservation
Episode 17, Season 4
Country Ham will grace many Kentucky family tables this holiday season.  Annhall Norris shares a little about the history of this treasured Kentucky delicacy as well information about how it is preserved, stored and prepared.  Listen to this show to learn more about different ways to enjoy this time honored Kentucky traditional meat.
 
For more information:
How to Make a Country Ham
What do I do with my Country Ham? - video
Making a Country Ham - video

Thrill of the Grill

FACS Sizzlin' Summer - Week 2
Welcome to Week 2 of our FACS Sizzlin' Summer. Each week our podcast topic will relate to a theme that will be used for summer programming in county offices across the state of Kentucky. On Thursdays at 11 am eastern time, join us on our Facebook page @UKFCSExt for a related webinar.
Thrill of the Grill
Host: Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Annhall Norris, Extension Specialist for Food Safety and Preservation
Episode 52, Season 2
Grilling food is a delicious and fun food preparation method that defines summer eating for many people.  On this episode of Talking FACS, Annhall Norris shares some great grilling tips with Mindy McCulley. From preparation to serving and storage, listeners will hear best practices for serving up a safe and delicious grilled meal.
Remember to cook your meat to a proper internal temperature:
ground meat               160 degrees F
poultry                         165 degrees F
steaks, chops, roasts  145 degrees F
Full episode transcript