Tuesday, July 15, 2008

KEAAU – As part of the Hawai‘i State Department of Health’s (DOH) Healthy Hawai‘i Initiative Fruits and Veggies. Good Choice! that encourages Hawai‘i island residents to eat one more serving of fruit and one more serving of veggies each day, Puna Fresh Foods on the Big Island of Hawaii announced today the a winning recipe to support this Start Living Healthy initiative.

“There is compelling evidence that shows increasing fruit and vegetable intake by as little as one serving per day can have a real impact on heart disease risk,” stated Deputy Director of Health Morgan Barrett, M.D. “In Hawaii, where heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death, this campaign is a much needed call to action that educates our residents on making healthy choices that can have positive health impacts.”

 “It’s easy to eat just one more serving of fruit and one more serving of vegetables,” stated Lt. Governor James “Duke” Aiona, Jr. “Fresh fruit instead of pastries, tossed salad instead of mac, and crunchy veggies instead of chips . . . these are all good choices we can make everyday.

Graciano del Mar’s recipe Lava Rock Fresh Mahi Salad was selected as the winning recipe for this special Fruits and Veggie category at the 12^th Annual Taste of Puna – Cook Off, held at Puna Fresh Food at the Keaau Shopping Center on June 21, 2008.  “We’re pleased to be part of this statewide Healthy Eating Initiative and look forward to continually supporting local diversified agriculture on the Big Island and State; it’s good for both our health and economy.” stated Carl Okuyama, president of Sure Save Super Market, Ltd.

Executive Chef Graciano of Lava Rock Café and Coqui Hideaway used locally grown produce including Rainbow Farms lettuce, bell peppers, avocados, ohelo berries, macadamia nuts, imported pippin apples, and locally caught Mahi-mahi.  Locally made “Mango Spicy Dressing” topped off the healthy meal.  Graciano’s recipe is available at www.suresave.com

“Fruits and Veggies. Good Choice!” is a component of the DOH’s education campaign called Start Living Healthy that encourages Hawai‘i’s residents to eat healthy food, be more physically active and live tobacco free. For more information on ways to live a healthier lifestyle visit www.healthyhawaii.com.

For More Information:

Carl Okuyama, President
Sure Save Super Market, Ltd.
16-586 Old Volcano Road
Keaau, Hawaii 96749
Cell:        (808) 937-4392
Website: www.suresave.com
“Sharing the taste of Hawaii with the World”