FollowtheFrog with Dole and the Rainforest Alliance

ADVERTORIAL: We wake up each morning with the intention to be better, do better, and live better. But how? Well, to start with you can Follow the Frog in New Zealand… With deforestation happening at the rate of 80 trees every four seconds in the Amazon, the need to shop for sustainable goods has never been so important.

Knowing this, Dole is reinforcing its commitment to excellence across operations, with a sharp focus on sustainability, employee well-being and products that meet stringent health, safety and environmental standards. Agricultural expansion is responsible for 70 per cent of global deforestation, therefore, the Rain forest Alliance’s green frog seal is your assurance that the goods and services were produced according to strict environmental, social and economic standards that curb deforestation, protect wildlife and improve conditions for workers, families and communities.

Around the world, 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods. The Rain forest Alliance works directly with farmers in more than 40 countries, including the Amazon – essential to regulating the Earth’s climate. The Rain forest Alliance Certified seal features a frog because the amphibians are ‘indicator species’. Their presence in areas of agricultural activity is a symbol of environmental health, and frogs are found on every continent except Antarctica. So, what can you do to help? Living mindfully is a start – from shopping for sustainable certified products, to saving water and recycling – your everyday choices can make a difference.

You can also help us spread the word and encourage consumers to Follow the Frog by choosing sustainable products. Also keep an eye on Dole’s Facebook page, @Dolefresh and #FollowTheFrog for upcoming initiatives in New Zealand. After all, we are all vital to a better tomorrow.

Tropical pineapple ginger smoothie


Serves 2

Designed by Niki Bezzant

This is a refreshing combination of flavours that’s lovely on a hot day. This smoothie is naturally sweet, and gives you your two fruit serves for the day plus some calcium and fibre. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack or for breakfast served with toast and your favourite topping.

Combine:

175g Dole pineapple pieces (about a cup)
2 cm piece ginger, chopped (or use ¾ teaspoon minced ginger)
2 Bobby bananas, peeled and frozen
1/3 cup natural yoghurt
½ cup unsweetened drinking coconut milk
dash of vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Blend well, until smooth and creamy. Garnish with pineapple, mint and coconut threads, if desired.

VARIATIONS:

For a thicker, more slushy-like version: freeze pineapple before adding to smoothie
For a green vege boost, add a handful of spinach or kale
For a lighter smoothie, use coconut water instead of coconut milk

Source: http://www.healthyfood.co.nz