WATSONVILLE, CA - To encourage healthy eating for National Nutrition Month, and every month of the year, the California Strawberry Commission has launched its 2015 campaign to focus on promoting the following 12 reasons to enjoy strawberries:
- High in vitamin C (more than oranges) and may boost immunity.
- May reduce the risk of heart disease, according to studies.
- Considered a superfruit with loads of antioxidants and anthocyanins.
- Grown by caring strawberry farmers who use sustainable farming practices.
- Nationally celebrated and voted America’s favorite fruit.
- Versatile and can be added to savory and sweet dishes.
- Vibrant and juicy for summer snacking and entertaining.
- Grown to perfection along the California coast in ideal growing conditions.
- Loved by kids and ideal for back to school lunches.
- Ideal for adding appeal to holiday dishes and special occasions.
- Low in sugar, naturally sweet with only 45 calories per cup.
- Available year-round and easy to freeze.
California Strawberries' overall goal for 2015 and beyond, is to continue highlighting the contributions of the more than 400 California strawberry farmers, and the value they bring to the community.
The commission is also expanding its social media program, supported by a blogger ambassador program. The commission hopes the effort will result in reaching more consumers directly through year-round engagement, using popular platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter.
Other components of the program include farm tours and culinary events, recipe creation, contests, and digital campaigns, according to a press release.
The commission also says that celebrity dietitians will continue to work closely with the commission on major television, news, and social media initiatives to endorse the health benefits of strawberries. Special efforts will be made during key times of the year, including National Nutrition Month and National Strawberry Month.
The food service program will be expanded to reach chefs, food service operators, menu developers, and food writers through media events, recipe demonstrations, and ongoing distribution of tools and resources. Public affairs events, including field tours, will be held throughout the year to connect farmers with elected officials, demonstrating the positive economic, environmental, and cultural impacts that result from strawberry farming.
