A Smooth Way To Eat An Apple A Day
So Ono’s Nathan Okinaka was born and raised right here on Oahu, and throughout the years he’s assisted several nonprofit groups with events or initiatives.
This year he’s helping coordinate the 15th annual Easter Seals Gingerbread Family Festival. Participants are invited to build a gingerbread house at events held statewide, and enjoy traditional treats, holiday activities, entertainment and face-painting, with proceeds going to support Easter Seals Hawaii programs and services.
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As director of operations for So Ono Food Products, he currently sits on the board of Hawaii Food Manufacturers Association, working to increase awareness and bring support to our Hawaii manufacturing industry.
So Ono was recognized this year as Manufacturer of the Year — Large Company category at Hawaii Food Manufacturers Association’s inaugural TASTE Awards.
So Ono Food Products was established in 2001, and its mission is to provide fresh, ready-to-eat products, such as fresh cut fruits, veggies, salads and sandwiches to food service, retailers and schools across the state.
One of its newest products is So Ono Organic Apple Fries. Children love apples, and So Ono found that they love them even more when you cut off the skin. That’s when they launched Apple Fries. They use fresh apples, cut them down to minimal skin and make them look like fries.
The apple tree is believed to be native to southwestern Asia. Archeological information provides evidence that apples have been cultivated since ancient times, and actually were growing wild in prehistoric Europe. The Romans recognized more than 37 varieties of apples, and today more than 7,500 varieties are known to exist.
Apples are a good source of vitamin C and contain pectin, which helps to control cholesterol, blood sugar and cellulose levels, as well as improve intestinal functioning.
Eating raw apples cleans the teeth and massages the gums.
Here’s a fun and healthy way to use the apple fries for a delicious smoothie.
APPLE FRIES SMOOTHIE
• 1 1-ounce bag So Ono Apple Fries
• 3-4 strawberries
• 1/2 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
Blend all ingredients for a fresh and healthy smoothie on the go.
Makes one serving.
heartychef@hotmail.com
