Non-Toxic Dad News: May 9, 2024

Raise a glass to awareness, not to toxins! It's time we discuss a pressing concern lurking in the shadows of our vineyards. Recent studies, including those from 2016 and 2019, reveal a startling truth about the wines we love. Despite their robust flavors and alluring aromas, most California wines are not as pristine as you might think. They are, in fact, loaded with glyphosate—a chemical that turns your relaxing glass of Cabernet into a potential health hazard.

Most vineyards in the state still use glyphosate, suggesting a widespread issue that likely affects the majority of California wines. Alarmingly, this includes even some wines labeled as "organic." Yes, you read that right—even some of your favorite "clean" wines may not be as safe as promised.

But before you despair, there's a silver lining. A few rare natural California wines are verified as Glyphosate-Free. These exceptions prove that a cleaner, more transparent wine industry is possible.

So, what's the big deal with glyphosate? Even at low levels, glyphosate can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome, impairing your body's natural detox pathways and affecting much more than just your digestive health.

Stay tuned as we explore safer wine choices and explore how to protect our health from unwanted chemicals. Your well-being is worth more than a glass of tainted wine!

When you picture a social gathering, what’s usually in everyone’s hand? Often, it’s a drink. But think about this: the best parts of a party—laughter, conversation, and connection—can happen just as easily without alcohol. Skipping the booze is becoming a savvy choice for many who find that it enhances their enjoyment and deepens their interactions.

So, you’ve decided to embrace yoga—stretching, breathing, finding that inner peace. But did you know that the very mat you’re stretching on might be stretching the truth about its safety? Let’s dive into the not-so-flexible truth about phthalates. These are sneaky chemicals used to make yoga mat pliable. Sure, they make mats easy to roll up and carry, but they’re also pretty good at messing with our hormones. Not exactly the wellness vibe we’re going for, right?

You know how we all strive to ditch anything that smells even slightly of ‘chemical’? Well, Tritan plastic entered the scene waving a big flag that reads “BPA- and BPS-Free!” and we all perked up. It’s like finding out your favorite snack is suddenly calorie-free. But before we throw a parade for Tritan, let’s dig a bit deeper and see if it’s really the champion of non-toxic plastics it claims to be.

As we uncover the uncomfortable truth about glyphosate in many California wines, it’s vital to make informed choices about what we pour into our glasses. This week, let’s take a proactive step towards cleaner drinking habits!

Tip: Explore Local Natural Wineries

Discovering glyphosate-free wines can be an enjoyable journey for any wine enthusiast who values health and sustainability. Here are more detailed strategies to help you find and enjoy natural wines that are free from harmful chemicals:

1. Research Local Natural Wineries

Start by exploring local wineries that commit to organic and biodynamic practices. These wineries avoid using synthetic chemicals like glyphosate in their vineyards. Check out winery websites, read their sustainability practices and policies, and look for certifications such as Demeter (biodynamic certification) or Certified Organic.

2. Visit Farmer’s Markets

Many local vintners sell their wines at farmer’s markets and often enjoy sharing their practices with consumers. This can be a great opportunity to ask direct questions about their farming methods and whether they use glyphosate.

3. Wine Tastings and Tours

Participate in wine tastings and tours offered by vineyards. These are excellent ways to learn directly from producers and taste the difference in wines made without harmful chemicals. During these tours, inquire about their farming practices and how they manage pests and weeds without glyphosate.

4. Use Wine Apps and Guides

There are several apps and guides dedicated to helping consumers find organic and natural wines in their area. Apps like Vivino or websites like Wine Searcher allow users to filter their searches to include only organic or biodynamically certified wines.

5. Check Specialty Wine Stores

Visit specialty wine stores with knowledgeable staff who can guide you to wines that meet your criteria. These stores often have a wider selection of natural and organic wines, and staff can provide detailed information about the wine's production and chemical-free certifications.

6. Look for Transparency in Labeling

Some winemakers include information about their farming and production practices right on the label. Look for terms like “no added chemicals,” “non-GMO,” or “sustainably farmed” as indicators of healthier wine choices.

By exploring these avenues, you’ll not only enrich your knowledge and palate but also support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly wine industry. Cheers to good health and great wine!

Enjoy a truly refreshing and hydrating mocktail this summer, designed to minimize sugar while maximizing flavor. This recipe focuses on sparkling water and a splash of natural citrus to keep things light and fresh.

Ingredients:

• 1 liter of sparkling mineral water

• A few drops of fresh lemon juice

• A few drops of fresh lime juice

• A mix of fresh fruits (such as slices of organic lemons, limes, and a few strawberries and raspberries)

• A few sprigs of fresh mint or basil for an aromatic touch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: Wash and thinly slice the lemons and limes. Keep the strawberries and raspberries whole after rinsing.

2. Infuse the Citrus: In a large pitcher, add the fresh drops of lemon and lime juice.

3. Add Sparkle and Fruits: Pour the sparkling mineral water into the pitcher. Add the sliced lemons, limes, and berries, and gently stir to combine all the flavors.

4. Chill: Let the mocktail chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is crucial as it allows the subtle flavors to meld together.

5. Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour over the chilled mocktail, and garnish with fresh mint or basil.

6. Enjoy: This ultra-light mocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm day, providing a crisp and refreshing way to stay cool and hydrated without any added sugars.

Remember, every small change contributes to a larger impact. Whether it’s choosing a bottle of wine or educating others about the importance of non-toxic living, your choices matter. Keep exploring, asking questions, and enjoying the pure pleasures of clean living.