March is National Nutrition Month and the theme this year is Fuel for the Future which encourages consumers to eat with the environment in mind. This means consuming more plant-based meals and snacks, using less packaging, and purchasing seasonal, local foods. Eating more plant-based foods, like Michigan Beans, is not only good for the planet, but a plant-forward eating pattern can also help you manage your weight, reduce chronic inflammation and reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. 

Affordable, nutritious and delicious plant foods can be found throughout the grocery store. Start by making sure fruits and veggies have a prominent place in your cart, and remember, they come in a variety of forms including fresh, frozen and canned. Pick those that are versatile recipes ingredients like Michigan Beans and tomatoes which can be added to soups, chili, salads and more. Don’t forget to add in a variety of whole grain foods along with nuts and seeds. And remember, lean meats, low fat dairy foods and seafood can also be part of plant-forward shopping cart.

Plant-Forward Shopping List

• Cart over to the can aisle: 
  • Canned Beans
  • Canned mushrooms, corn, tomatoes, etc.
  • Low-sugar canned fruit

• Pick out your produce: 
  • Dried Michigan Beans
  • Fresh fruits – bananas, apples, grapes, peaches, pears, berries, etc.
  • Fresh veggies – onions, mushrooms, potatoes, peppers, carrots, etc.
  • Salad mixes

• Don’t forget frozen:
  • Fruits & vegetables
  • Plant-forward frozen meals
  • Whole grain waffles
  • Seafood

• Go for the grains:
  • Hot and cold whole grain cereals
  • Bakery breads and rolls
  • Whole grain crackers
  • Brown rice; Quinoa, Farro, etc.
  • Whole grain and bean flours
  • Bean flour pasta

• Choose nutrient-rich snacks:
  • Bean chips/crackers
  • Roasted beans
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Hummus
  • Dried fruit
  • Salsa and whole grain chips

• Find healthy fats:
  • Olive & canola oil
  • Avocado
  • Plant-based spreads

• Drive over to dairy:
  • Low fat milk or milk alternatives
  • Low fat yogurt or plant-based yogurts
  • Cheese

• Pick out your protein:
  • Beans 
  • Tofu
  • Eggs
  • Lean meats 
  • Poultry
  • Fish/seafood

Once you have a plant-forward filled pantry it’s time to get cooking! Here are 2 new Michigan Bean recipes that are quick, delicious and affordable.