WANDA: Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics & Agriculture

?? Food Shero Friday Spotlight: Shirley Sherrod ?? Today, we’re celebrating Shirley Sherrod, a lifelong advocate for Black farmers and rural communities. Not only did she co-found the New Communities Land Trust, but she also played a pivotal role in securing one of the largest civil rights settlements for Black farmers through the Pigford v. Glickman lawsuit, addressing decades of USDA discrimination. Her leadership extends beyond farming—Shirley is a powerful educator and community builder, helping young people understand the importance of land ownership and sustainable agriculture. She also established programs to improve healthcare and housing in underserved areas, showcasing her commitment to holistic community development. Let’s honor Shirley Sherrod for her tireless fight for justice, equity, and empowerment in rural America. ???? #FoodSheroFriday #ShirleySherrod #FoodJustice #BlackFarmersMatter #LandJustice #EquityInFood #CommunityBuilder #FoodFreedomFighter

?? Giving Thanks to Sisterhood ?? This Thanksgiving, we at WANDA are celebrating the power of sisterhood—the heartbeat of our movement. Sisterhood is more than shared experiences; it’s about standing together, lifting each other up, and creating a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. For WANDA, sisterhood means: ? Empowerment: Nurturing leadership in women and girls to advocate for food justice and health equity. ? Support: Building a network of women committed to reshaping food systems and communities. ? Legacy: Honoring the women who came before us and paving the way for those who come after. ? Unity: Celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and stories that make our sisterhood strong. We give thanks to the WANDA women—past, present, and future—who make our mission possible. Together, we are not just building a movement; we are building a family. ?? Tag your sisters below and let them know why you’re thankful for them! #WANDAsisterhood #FoodJustice #Gratitude

???? Tasty Thanksgiving Trivia! ???? This tropical fruit, known for its creamy texture and sweet flavor, is a holiday favorite in both the Caribbean and West Africa. Any guesses on what it might be? ??? Drop your answers below and let’s see who’s got the fruit facts! ?????? #TastyThanksgivingTrivia #CaribbeanFlavors #WestAfricanCuisine #FoodieChallenge Answer: Soursop

??? Fight Like Fannie! ??? Fannie Lou Hamer showed us what it means to stand up for justice, even when the odds are stacked against you. At WANDA, we carry her legacy by fighting for food justice, health equity, and community empowerment. Hamer knew that access to land and healthy food was a cornerstone of freedom, famously stating, “If you give a man a job and a paycheck but he can’t afford to buy the food to feed his family, you’ve still got him in slavery.” When we #FightLikeFannie, we honor her relentless spirit in the fight for self-determination and equal access to resources. Let’s continue her work by building systems where everyone can thrive. ?????? #FoodFreedom #HealthJustice #FannieLouHamer #WANDAPower

?? Cinnamon Recall Alert: Protecting Our Spice Rack and Our Health ?? What’s in your pantry? A recent cinnamon recall due to dangerously high lead levels has us rethinking what’s in our spice racks—and what’s on our plates. Lead exposure is no joke, particularly for children and vulnerable populations, as it can cause serious health risks over time. At WANDA, we believe food safety is non-negotiable. This recall is a wake-up call for all of us to stay vigilant about the quality and sourcing of the foods and spices we use daily. ?? Key Takeaways from the Article: Certain batches of cinnamon have been recalled due to excessive lead contamination, which poses long-term health risks. Children are especially vulnerable to lead exposure, making this recall a critical concern for families. The recall serves as a reminder to always check labels, stay informed about recalls, and prioritize safe, high-quality ingredients. ? What Can You Do? 1?? Check Your Pantry: Make sure your cinnamon isn’t part of the affected batches. 2?? Source Smart: Opt for trusted brands and organic options whenever possible. 3?? Stay Informed: Follow food safety news to protect yourself and your loved ones. This isn’t just about cinnamon—it’s about holding food companies accountable and ensuring that every community, especially those already facing health disparities, has access to safe, high-quality ingredients. ?? At WANDA, we’re committed to empowering women and families with knowledge to create healthier, safer meals. Let’s make food safety a collective priority, one spice at a time. ?? Read more about the recall here: Fox LA Article ?? How are you ensuring food safety in your kitchen? Let’s share tips and ideas to keep our families and communities healthy. #FoodSafety #HealthEquity #WANDA #CinnamonRecall #SafeEating https://lnkd.in/ednXHwbv

?? When Convenience Comes at a Cost: The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Utensils ?? We’ve all reached for that plastic fork or spoon—whether at a BBQ, food truck, or office lunch. But did you know that this everyday convenience could carry serious health risks? According to a new investigation by the San Francisco Chronicle, chemicals in plastic utensils may leach harmful substances into your food, increasing potential cancer risks. At WANDA, we know that what we eat—and how we eat it—matters. This article highlights why sustainability, health, and cultural preservation must intersect in our advocacy for better food systems. ?? Key Points from the Article: Plastic utensils, often made from recycled electronics, may contain toxic chemicals that migrate into food. Studies have linked these substances to hormonal disruptions and cancer risks—issues disproportionately affecting marginalized communities already grappling with environmental injustices. Alternatives like reusable utensils, bamboo, or compostable options offer safer solutions for individuals and the planet. At WANDA, we believe in empowering communities with knowledge to make healthier choices—choices that protect our bodies and the environment. This isn’t just about forks and spoons; it’s about shifting power in the food system to prioritize sustainability, transparency, and health equity. ?? Take Action: 1?? Swap plastic utensils for reusable or eco-friendly options. 2?? Support policies and brands pushing for safer food packaging. 3?? Join conversations on food safety and environmental justice. Read the full article here: SF Chronicle Article ?? Let’s protect ourselves and our communities—starting with what’s on (and holding) our plates. What steps are you taking toward safer food practices? Let us know in the comments! #FoodSafety #Sustainability #HealthEquity #WANDAWorks #PlasticFree https://lnkd.in/ePkiR66k

?? From Africa to Your Plate: The Gut-Friendly Magic of Fermentation ?? Fermentation isn’t just a food trend—it’s a tradition that’s been rising (pun intended) for centuries, especially across Africa. Think beyond kombucha and sauerkraut and step into the world of African fermented foods like injera, ogi, and fermented dairy, which are as rich in history as they are in gut-nourishing benefits! Our very own Tambra Raye Stevenson, founder of WANDA, shared her insights in Today's Dietitian Magazine , highlighting how these functional foods are more than just a bite of nostalgia—they’re a bridge to cultural roots and better health. ?? Why Fermented Foods Matter: Packed with beneficial bacteria for gut health (hello, Lactobacillus and friends!). Reduce antinutritional compounds, improving nutrient absorption. Rooted in whole, nutrient-dense ingredients like teff, grains, and legumes. ? Tambra’s Favorite? Injera! This Ethiopian sourdough flatbread, made from ancient teff grain, offers a tangy flavor and deep cultural connection. “Making injera is a three-day process,” Tambra explains, “but it’s worth it for the nourishment and the bond it creates with my heritage.” As African fermented foods start bubbling up in research and kitchens across the U.S., we’re reminded that food isn’t just medicine—it’s history, healing, and heritage. ??? Ready to dive into the world of African fermented foods and reconnect with their roots and benefits? Check out the full article here: Read More How are YOU celebrating your cultural foodways? Let us know in the comments! ?? #FoodAsMedicine #FermentedFoods #AfricanFoodways #CulturalNutrition #IamWANDA https://lnkd.in/epXVQSWf

??? When it rains, it pours... nutrients right out of the soil! ?? A new study reveals that heavier rainstorms are washing away essential crop nutrients from American soil, leaving our food system at risk. This isn’t just a farming problem—it’s a food security issue that affects every bite on our plates. At WANDA, we know that the strength of our communities is rooted in the strength of our soil. When the soil suffers, so do the fruits, veggies, and grains that nourish us. It’s time to rethink our relationship with the land, champion sustainable practices, and advocate for policies that protect both the soil and the people it feeds. ?? What’s the solution? From promoting regenerative agriculture to supporting local farmers and advocating for climate-smart food systems, there’s no shortage of ways to take action. So let’s ask ourselves: how can we ensure that the soil our ancestors cultivated remains a source of sustenance for generations to come? Join the conversation and let’s keep the soil and our communities rich with nutrients, resilience, and equity. ???? ?? Read the full study here: https://lnkd.in/e3ujWZcH #SoilHealth #ClimateAction #FoodSecurity #WANDA #SustainableFarming #BlackWomenInAg #FoodJustice

?? From Fries to Fortune: Are Ultra-Processed Foods Stealing Our Health Wealth? ?? In a world where convenience is king, ultra-processed foods are ruling our plates—and not in a good way. This Fortune Well article dives into the health risks of ultra-processed foods, highlighting their link to chronic diseases and the importance of getting back to basics. Spoiler alert: your body deserves more than mystery ingredients you can’t pronounce! At WANDA, we believe in empowering women to reclaim their foodways and reconnect with the power of real, whole foods. Ultra-processed foods may be cheap, but the cost to our health is too high. From community kitchens to Sisterhood Suppers, we're serving up more than just meals—we're dishing out a recipe for resilience and health equity. ?? Fun Fact: Food isn’t just fuel—it’s medicine. By shifting the narrative, we can make better choices for our families and communities, keeping chronic diseases at bay and building generational health, the new wealth. Let’s get back to nourishing, not just feeding. What’s one ultra-processed food you’ve swapped for a homemade or healthier version? Drop your winning wisdom in the comments below. ???? #RealFoodRevolution #HealthIsWealth #FoodAsMedicine #IamWANDA #FoodSheroes https://lnkd.in/egUCSRBK

This Turn the Page Tuesday, we’re featuring Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World by Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN. ???? In this incredible cookbook, Maya Feller celebrates the diverse culinary traditions from across the globe, offering over 80 healthy, home-cooked recipes that honor cultural heritage while nourishing the body. With a focus on vibrant, nutrient-dense ingredients, Feller takes us on a journey through flavors and stories that connect us to the roots of our food. From Caribbean-inspired stews to Mediterranean salads and beyond, this cookbook is a testament to the power of cooking as an act of love and connection. Join us as we explore how Eating from Our Roots highlights the beauty of global cuisines and encourages us to embrace health through the foods that bring us closer to our cultural identities. ???? #TurnThePageTuesday #EatingFromOurRoots #MayaFeller #CulturalCuisines #HealthyEating #FoodStories #GlobalFlavors #FoodIsHeritage