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See also: Article on Spinach; Spinach Quotes

SPINACH

Spinach: Top 5 Producing Countries       (USDA)   2000 2010 World totals 20.8 billion lbs 39.79 billion lbs China 15.35 billion lbs 35.26 billion lbs United States 730 million lbs 780 million lbs Japan 700 million lbs 590 million lbs Turkey 450 million lbs 480 million lbs Indonesia 140 million lbs 340 million lbs

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.

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)


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

In 1929 Popeye the spinach loving sailor first appeared in the comic strip 'Thimble Theatre.'  Elzie Segar created Popeye.

In 1937 Spinach growers in the U.S. erected a statue in honor of Popeye the comic strip sailor.

Spinach was the first frozen vegetable to be sold.

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)