Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN, CDN
If you are considering how the foods you eat impact your health and the health of our planet, you are not alone. Embracing that holistic approach to ensuring we all have access to healthy food, and ensuring we manage food well from land and sea is key to access now and in the future.
Striving to #EatSeafood2XWeek is recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association. Eating more seafood is a proven way to support heart and brain health, ensure good intake of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and enjoy easy to season lean, nutrient-rich protein. Seafood is a great choice for pregnant women (see important recommendations here: Advice About Eating Fish). It is also a great starter food for toddlers and young children, with research showing significant positive impact on brain growth and IQ (Seafood Nutrition Partnership). The benefits don’t stop there – building that #Seafood2XWeek routine will fuel your family’s health for life!
Learning more about how seafood fisheries and farms are managed can help you be confident in the choices you make. Farmed and wild seafood are both good choices, as both industries are working with scientists and systems to maximize production while protecting the environment. Our Seafood Team knows sourcing responsibly harvested and farmed fish is good for people and the planet. Our deeply experienced buyers collectively have over 30+ years of experience and have been advocates for ensuring seafood fisheries are actively engaged in sustainable practices. This includes seeking sourcing standards like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification and supporting fisheries engaged in criteria-driven fishery improvement projects (FIPs), as science and safety continues to drive best practices.
For farmed seafood, the science has become an independent certification our Seafood team relies on to assist with supporting best aquaculture practices and high-quality items. For example, they ensure farmed salmon meet the internationally recognized Best Aquaculture Practices standards – you can learn more here: Best Aquaculture Practices. Look for the certification on Market 32 seafood packages.
Those best practices include careful sourcing of some species from specific areas, such as certified Icelandic Haddock, and Alaskan Snow Crab. Science also ensures seafood is processed and flash frozen as quickly as possible, to preserve flavor, texture and nutrient profile. Cryovac packaging of fresh-frozen fish ensures you can enjoy 1 or all 4 filets when you want to bring the benefits to your table by choosing a Market 32 frozen seafood. Fresh or frozen, flavor, and quality are all ensured by our team – we can’t wait for you to try them all! #EatSeafoodAmerica
National Seafood Month
Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN
Does this sound familiar? It is 4 PM, and you have no idea what to make for dinner. What you do know is you want it to be quick, easy, delicious, and good for you. Seafood may be your new best friend – versatile and vital, full of essential nutrients and easy to season, it can be a big deal for a special evening or a freezer-to-plate problem solver.
Less than 20% of Americans eat the recommended amount of se afood #2XPerWeek, but that is starting to change as culinary curiosity and positive health benefit research across the life span continues to grow. As a group, seafood is nutrient dense, meaning it packs a variety of nutrients into each nourishing bite, depending on the species. Lean protein, brain and heart-health promoting omega-3 fats; vitamins A, B and D, as well as minerals selenium, zinc, iodine, iron, calcium and phosphorous. Together they bring a lot of value in an easy-to-cook package!
Seafood, especially in the Northeast, has a historical role in feeding the indigenous peoples of America, and then European settlers when they arrived. As stated by author Barton Seaver, “seafood was the first economy this country founded, and upon which we took our first steps toward economic and political freedom.” ₁ This was fueled in part by the robust access to North Atlantic cod and intersected with the seeking of religious freedom. Fasting days, which included seafood traditions, were over 150 per year in some religious calendars, and underpinned immigration for religious freedom to the New World for many. Immigration throughout American history has brought many from cultures where seafood was a fundamental element of their cuisine. Seafood was also a mainstay during the World Wars, when other foods were rationed to support troops. Seasonality also has a role – the seas come alive in spring, in time for Lent, the most popular time of year to eat seafood.
The advancement of technology and processing has expanded the options we have for seafood – many of the varieties we carry are wild caught, processed and fresh frozen at sea to maintain the highest quality of delicate flavor and texture. Market 32 frozen filets are individually wrapped in the package, ensuring you can make one or all and enjoy the same great experience. Frozen seafood can be cooked in about 15 minutes, right out of the freezer, so is a perfect staple for busy days. Market 32 Shrimp and Scallops come in various sizes, ready to defrost and enjoy or perfectly prepped to make your favorite recipe. Lobster and crab are the highest quality, and wonderful to bring to a table full of friends and family!
Check out the great sales and watch for recipes and finspiration throughout October, National Seafood Month.
#EatMoreSeafoodAmerica!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
It’s National Corn Month, and we think that is something to celebrate! We’ve been partnering with local corn farmers here in the Northeast since 1932. Corn is one of our region’s top agricultural products. Our farmers love to eat this local treat fresh-off-the-stalk, and so do we!
Leading up to the month of July, our corn takes quite a journey. During the month of May when local farmers are tending to their fields, we will tap into Florida’s sweet corn season and supply those delicous ears. Fast forward to June and we start to move up the coast into the state of Georgia. While we are getting corn from here, our local corn has started to sprout. Exciting things await!
Finally, the month of July comes and we are popping with excitement (pun intended)! The first half of the month, we move even further up the coast to North Carolina and Delaware, since their corn season is in full swing. However, by mid to late July, our local sweet corn season is finally underway! This lasts only until mid September, but we enjoy every minute of our corn season. Let’s take a look at a few local suppliers.
Shaul Farms:
We are proud to partner with Shaul Farms located in Fultonham, New York. Amazingly, eleven generations have worked on this farm. They produce cider and vegetables.
Paul Mazza Farms:
We are proud to partner with Paul Mazza Farms located in Colchester, Vermont. For 38 years, Paul Mazza Farms’ goal is to connect the community to fresh local foods.
Check out some summertime recipes you can make with our locally sourced corn!
Mexican Street Corn: Have you ever tried Mexican Street Corn? Well, now you can with this easy and delicious recipe!
home.grown. Corn Fritters: This meal is similar to fried dough with a savory cornmeal-based batter. Try our PICS Cheese varieties or PICS Maple Syrup to go on top.
Grilled Shrimp, Corn, & Tomato Rolls with Lime Mayo: This will be a summertime favorite! Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Summertime Steak Lettuce Wraps: Craving a taco but don’t want the shell? Try these lettuce wraps with similar ingredients as your traditional taco. As always, feel free to add or omit any item.
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
There is so much to celebrate throughout the month of July. Not only is the weather warm and there is so much to do, but it is also National Smoothie Month! If you are a smoothie lover, then this blog is for you. Nowadays, there are many places to order smoothies on the go. However, what about making your own smoothie at home? You can save time by not having to drive anywhere, and you can also save money by adding in your own ingredients. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have a ton of smoothie add-ins for you to try, as well as recipes. While there are no right or wrong ingredients to add in your smoothie, we have some delicious ideas for you below. Without further ado, let’s get blending!
Fruit:
Blueberries (National Blueberry Day is July 11th!)
Strawberries
Bananas
Oranges
Veggies:
Kale
Spinach
Avocado
Milk:
Skim, 2%, or Whole Milk
Almond Milk
Soy Milk
Cashew Milk
Yogurt:
Plain Greek Yogurt
Flavored Greek Yogurt
Nut Butter:
Peanut Butter
Almond Butter
Cashew Butter
Powdered Peanut Butter (PB2)
Other Add-Ins:
Protein Powder
Cocoa Powder
Honey
Flax Seeds / Chia Seeds
Interested in some recipes? Check them out below!
Kicked Up Green Smoothie: A delicious blend of fruits, veggies, and yogurt to power you through your day!
Chocolaty-Orange Smoothie: This smoothie is so refreshing for a warm summer’s day!
Winter Kiwi, Clementine & Blackberry Smoothie: Fresh produce, coconut water, and sweet honey? Yes, please!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
Let’s be honest – we don’t need an excuse to eat candy all month long. However, if you are looking for one – we have you covered! June is National Candy Month, and we think this is something to celebrate. Since June means warm weather, that means it’s time to also break out the ice cream! What better way to enjoy National Candy Month than with our wide variety of PICS ice cream covered in our PICS candy, hot fudge, whipped cream, and nuts! Be sure to browse our delicious ice cream sundae selection at the bottom of this article.
Sweet Facts about Candy & Chocolate!
- National Candy Month was first observed in 1974.
- The average American consumes 12 pounds of chocolate per year.
- White chocolate actually is not chocolate since it contains no cocoa.
- 200 million Skittles are produced each day.
- As of 2021, America’s favorite Halloween candy are Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Looking for a fun candy recipe to make? Try these S’mores Truffle Pops!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
It’s June – do you know what that means? It is National Dairy Month! We are celebrating all the creamy goodness of dairy this month, ranging from milk, cheese, ice cream, and everything in between! At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have a surplus of dairy products to offer, including our new PICS pint ice cream! Be sure to check them out at the end of this article.
National Dairy Month was originally just “National Milk Month” as a way to encourage people to drink more milk. However, this eventually became “National Dairy Month” by the National Dairy Council as a way to promote the benefits that dairy products provide to us. We have so many recipes on our website for all our dairy lovers! Let’s take a look at a few…
Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Nothing beats an ice cream sandwich on a warm summer day! Be sure to check out our PICS ice cream for a wide variety of flavors.
Baked Buffalo Cheese Sticks: The best appetizer right at your fingertips!
Caramel Milkshake: This four-ingredient shake is sure to be a fan favorite!
Pepperoni & Mushroom Pizza: In a hurry? No need to worry! This pizza is easy to make and perfect for celebrating National Dairy Month!
Lucky Charms Frozen Yogurt Pie: Looking for something fun to make for your July 4th celebration? This frozen yogurt pie is flavorful and festive. Beware: This will go fast!
Philly Cheesesteak Dip: Take your homemade dip to the next level with this Philly Cheesesteak Dip!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing
Calling all brunch fans! The month of April is National Brunch Month, and we are here to celebrate. Brunch is a perfect way to spend quality time with friends and family, laugh until your stomach aches, and fill up on your favorite breakfast. I mean, who can pass up warm French toast, buttery waffles, scrambled egg bakes and so much more? Here at Price Chopper and Market 32, we want to help you get your brunch on all April long.
Looking for brunch inspiration? Explore our collection of mouth-watering recipes that will have you whipping up the perfect brunch in no time! Our recipes will satisfy every palate. With Easter and Mother’s Day right around the corner, you will want to save some, or all of these delicious recipes!
Cinnamon Waffles with Apple-Pecan Topping: These are not your average waffles…they are so much better! The cinnamon with crunchy apples & pecans are to die for!
Farmer’s Market Hash with Poached Egg: This hearty meal is filled with a variety of vegetables, cheese, and an egg! Talk about a delicious brunch!
Blueberry-Banana Chia Seed Muffins: These muffins are the perfect side to brunch! Tip: Cut the muffins in half, warm for a few seconds, and then spread with PICS butter. Thank us later!
Buttermilk-Bacon Pancakes with Bourbon-Maple Syrup: What is a brunch without bacon? Now, combine your PICS bacon with pancakes and PICS maple syrup. Perfection!
Spring Sausage & Vegetable Strata: Now this is every brunch fan’s dream! Feel free to add in PICS bacon or other vegetables of choice. The more the merrier!
Blueberry French Toast Bake: Fresh blueberries on warm French toast with butter and maple syrup…need I say more?
Happy Brunch Month!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
It is hard to believe that today is already the first day of March! For the entire month, Price Chopper and Market 32 are celebrating National Frozen Food Month. We have a large variety of frozen foods, ranging from frozen produce, to ice cream, to frozen meals. Oh, and we cannot forget to mention that you can earn 20,000 bonus points on a freezer this month while supplies last! Continue reading to find out how.
Why Purchase Frozen Foods?
Purchasing frozen foods is a fantastic way to save money and time. Frozen meals are easy to prepare and are budget-friendly. We have delicious meals that can be cooked in minutes, which is perfect if you are in a time crunch. Additionally, unused frozen foods can simply be returned to the freezer and used for another meal. It is a win-win!
Everyone is Included!
At Price Chopper and Market 32, we want to ensure that there is an option for everyone. We have many vegan and vegetarian frozen meal options, as well as dairy-free ice cream and pizza, frozen gluten free bread, and much more. Head over to your local Price Chopper or Market 32 and discover our incredible variety of frozen food.
How Can I Earn 20,000 Rewards Points?
Yes, you read that right. You can earn 20,000 Rewards Points which equals $200 when you purchase an RCA Chest Freezer. Here is the best part; the Chest Freezer costs $200, so you will be earning that $200 back in the form of Points! How cool is that! For more information, please visit our Frozen Food Frenzy.
Want to explore some frozen drinks & bowls? Check out a few cool recipes below!
Caramel Milkshake: A four-ingredient delicious caramel milkshake is a must! Be sure to grab PICS whipped cream to complete this shake.
Hawaiian Smoothie Bowl: A tropical smoothie bowl that could be eaten as a meal, snack, or dessert! Feel free to add any other frozen fruits or toppings in this delicious bowl.
Kicked-Up Green Smoothie: A mix of frozen fruits & vegetables. This drink will help energize you throughout your day!
Happy National Frozen Food Month!
Shakin' Up Some Soup Ideas!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
The entire month of January is National Soup Month, and there is no better way to warm up on a cold winter night than with a hot bowl of your favorite soup. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have a ton of soup options including hot soup in our deli, canned soup in our soup aisle, and all the ingredients to make it homemade. The great thing about making homemade soup is that you can completely customize it to your liking, and there is no right or wrong way. There are many vegan and vegetarian soup recipes as well. Be sure to check out our Price Chopper Website, our Price Chopper Ready Website and YouTube Channel for recipes and tutorials!
Instant Pot® Tortellini & Vegetable Soup: This warm and filling soup is loaded with a variety of vegetables. While it is free of meat, you can always add in chicken or beef if you choose.
Chicken, Spinach, & Quinoa Soup: We have heard of soup with noodles and rice, but what about quinoa? Be sure to check out our variety of quinoa that is located in the aisle with the rice and beans.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup: Bring a little bit of summer in your home on a cold January day! Sprinkle on fresh cilantro or jalapeño pepper for garnish.
White Cheddar & Ale Soup: Love a cheesy, creamy soup? Then this is the recipe for you! Be sure to stop by the bakery section and pair with your favorite bread.
Happy National Soup Month!