Healthy and Happy
In Dr. Margaret Barrow's Founder's Statement this month, she responds to Jill Ettinger's article "San Francisco's UPF Lawsuit Reveals a Bigger Issue: Fresh Food Has Been Cut Out" published by VegNews. San Francisco is suing major food companies, claiming they made ultra-processed foods so widespread and aggressively marketed that consumers never had real choice. Ultra-processed foods became the default not because people chose them, but because the food system made healthier options hard to access. Real change requires making whole, nourishing foods affordable, available, and accessible to every community.
PawCo Foods has introduced SuperSalad, the first-ever plant-based salad designed specifically for dogs. Created with whole-food ingredients like spinach, quinoa, lentils, and butternut squash, the salad supports canine gut health, hydration, and overall wellness. According to PawCo’s founder, Dr. Mahsa Vazin, SuperSalad fills a major gap in the market and signals a broader shift toward wellness-focused dog food options.
Like us, you probably pay close attention to the ingredients in your food as well...
Several U.S. states have enacted bans or moratoria on the sale and production of cultivated (lab-grown) meat, even as federal agencies continue developing regulatory pathways for these products. Florida led the movement in 2024, followed by states such as Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, and Indiana. These bans have sparked legal challenges, most notably by UPSIDE Foods and the Institute for Justice, which argue that state prohibitions violate the Commerce Clause and conflict with federal authority. Courts are now weighing whether cultivated chicken qualifies as a federally regulated poultry product and whether states can legally block access to these emerging foods. The outcome of these cases will shape the future availability and regulation of cultivated food across the country.
This vegan tomato pasta with plant-based meatballs is a simple, flavorful one-skillet meal perfect for any night of the week. Tender pasta is simmered in a rich tomato sauce alongside hearty, plant-based meatballs, creating a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Made with wholesome, vegan-friendly ingredients, this recipe delivers classic Italian-inspired flavor without the meat or dairy—ideal for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and nourishing plant-based dinner.
Starting in 2027, the U.S. military will introduce fully vegan Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs), replacing four of the current vegetarian options. This shift follows years of advocacy by Mercy For Animals and reflects strong support from service members, many of whom expressed interest in healthier, plant-based choices. The new vegan MREs are designed to meet soldiers’ nutritional needs in demanding environments, offering updated components like protein bars, fruit-spiced cereals, and other plant-based items. The change marks a significant step toward more inclusive, sustainable, and wellness-focused food options within the armed forces.
Celebrate love in a nourishing way with these mindful, vegan-friendly Valentine’s Day recipes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. From rosy-hued breakfasts featuring beet powder and fruit-topped parfaits to shareable appetizers like beet hummus and tomato bruschetta, this guide offers simple, plant-based ideas for every part of the day. Enjoy customizable flatbreads, cozy dinner swaps like eggplant parmesan or vegetable lasagna, and sweet treats such as chocolate-dipped strawberries or vegan raspberry truffles. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, a partner, or yourself, these easy, wholesome recipes prove that thoughtful ingredients—and a little love—go a long way.
The FDA is opening new pathways for plant-based, non-dairy infant formulas, giving families more inclusive and healthier feeding options. This shift supports parents navigating allergies, intolerances, and values-driven choices, and reflects a growing understanding that infant nutrition must evolve to meet modern needs. Advocates like Else Nutrition have helped push for these changes, which signal meaningful progress toward a more flexible, compassionate, and whole-food approach to nourishing babies from the very beginning.
In this reintroduction to It’s Nola, we share the story behind the brand, its mission, and the founder who brought it to life. Born from a personal desire to prioritize health and create better food, It’s Nola is more than granola—it’s a lifestyle rooted in care, intention, and connection. Learn how our commitment to mindful snacking, community mentorship, and audaciously flavorful granola snack bites came together, and meet Dr. Margaret Barrow, the founder whose journey from her kitchen to your pantry continues to inspire healthier, happier living.