Society for Foodservice Management

September 15, 2011

Dr. James Painter sat down with SFM to answer some questions about staying health, eating organically and more.

SFM: Given everyone's busy schedules and budget constraints, what are the top 3 things I should focus on to keep myself and my family healthy?

Painter: One thing families should focus on exercise, about 30-60 minutes per day. Eating proper portions is also important. Trying to find healthier alternatives to foods you like can also help families stay healthy.

SFM: Any suggestions for ingredient substitutions to make everyday recipes healthier?

Painter: Cooking with the right types of oils can make a big difference in health. Making foods with canola or olive oil can help increase heart health benefits. Using whole ingredients such as whole grains can also make recipes healthier. Using ingredients such as raisins in baking can bring out the natural sweetness in the food instead of using refined sugars. Substituting these certain types of ingredients allows for an individual to consume and enjoy foods they typically eat without experiencing deprivation.

SFM: Food Inc., and other movies have made us anxious about eating non-organically. How important is organic eating? What are the most important foods to eat organically?

Painter: There are certain foods that tend to have a higher amount of pesticide residue. Foods that have a peel that can removed such as bananas have lower amounts of these residue. A list specified as the “dirty dozen” outlines foods that contain higher amounts of pesticides. Organic does not necessarily mean healthy. If an individual is concerned with eating organically, they should keep in mind whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. Refined products such as candy, soda, and other sugary foods are not as important to be concerned with when choosing the organic alternative. Organic foods can also be pricey, so that should also be kept in mind.

SFM: Is the foodservice industry doing enough to improve the nutritional values of their menu items?

Painter: The food service industry relies on consumer demand. If consumers are showing a demand for healthier alternatives, the industry will respond. Restaurants such as McDonalds, Hardees, and Panera have decreased the amount of calories in their meals to provide consumers with healthier options.

SFM: What is your "guilty pleasure"?

Painter: Peanut butter and chocolate. Peanut Butter Perfection ice cream from Coldstone is definitely one.