SPINACH
19th century cookbooks called for boiling spinach for 25 minutes!
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.
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
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