SPINACH
According to the USDA, 40,100 acres of Spinach were harvested for the fresh market in 2009.
An additional 10,100 acres were harvested for processing: 9,700 acres for freezing and 400 acres for canning.
19th century cookbooks called for boiling spinach for 25 minutes!
SPECIAL NOTE - Iron and calcium in plant foods are not highly absorbed by the body. Spinach contains a chemical called oxalic acid, which binds with iron and calcium and reduces the absorption of these minerals. To improve iron absorption, spinach should be eaten with vitamin C-rich foods such as orange juice, tomatoes, or citrus fruit. (CDC.gov - 5 a Day)
Spinach is believed to be of Persian origin and introduced into Europe in the 15th century. Since the early 19th century, spinach has been a versatile and commonly used vegetable in the United States.
CDC.gov - 5 a Day
Spinach was the first frozen vegetable to be sold.
In 1937 Spinach growers in the U.S. erected a statue in honor of Popeye the comic strip sailor.
In 1929 Popeye the spinach loving sailor first appeared in the comic strip 'Thimble Theatre.' Elzie Segar created Popeye.
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