SILK® Protein in a Nutshell

Written by Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian Updated April 24, 2024 The plant-based non-dairy industry grew by 15% from 2019 to 2020, an additional 6% from 2020 to 2021, and 11% from 2021 to 2022.(1) In a survey conducted in 2022 of 1217 consumers -(1) 71% consume and purchase only dairy products […]

Processed and Ultra-Processed Foods: Reading Beyond the Headlines

Written by Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian Updated April 16, 2024 Processed and ultra-processed foods are common headliners in terms of health-related topics. Concerns for consuming processed foods include heart disease, cancer, type-2 diabetes, and obesity.   A sample size of 105,159 participants ages 18-years and older  in Europe were observed over […]

Rotisserie Chicken: Meals Made Simple

Written by Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian Updated April 15, 2024 It is estimated that 625 million rotisserie chickens were sold in 2020.(1)    A consumer analysis on rotisserie chicken published in 2020 by Brisan Group reports -(2) Main purchasing factor is convenience Consumers view rotisserie chicken as a healthy, high-protein option […]

Yogurt: Not Just for Breakfast or Snacking

Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian Updated April 11, 2024 According to a consumer analysis on yogurt consumption in 2023 published by TasteWise -(1) 14,61% increase in restaurants serving yogurt Most important trait for yogurt purchasing is protein content An additional survey by Food Dive in 2021 reported -(2) 48% of consumers buy […]

Pork Up Your Nutrition

Written by Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian Updated April 9, 2024 Heart-Healthy Choice Pork is certified heart healthy by the American Heart Association.   For a food item to earn the certification by the American Heart Association, at least 5 nutrient criteria must be met -(1) Total Fat: less than 6.5 grams […]

Dietitian Feature: MinnTofu

Written by Andrew Akhaphong, MS, RD, LD, Mackenthun’s Registered Dietitian                                                                                            […]

Culinary Corner – Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake Mushrooms | Shutterstock

The shiitake mushroom is native to Asia and is one of the most cultivated mushrooms globally; grown on decayed wood. Approximately 83% of shiitake mushroom production is through Japan. One will often find them in Asian dishes, but shiitake mushrooms have recently became a spotlight as a protein source in the vegan and vegetarian lifestyle. […]