The Rainbow District School Board invited students and staff to eat pulses and share recipes Jan. 17.
Secondary school cafeterias, which are operated by Chartwells, featured a hearty vegan lentil bolognese, complete with celery, carrots, tomatoes, onions and red lentils.
This Go Green initiative is part of the Environmental Committee’s ongoing efforts to encourage sustainable practices, increase awareness about global food security, and address health challenges.
Pulses include a variety of lentils, beans and peas, and can be added to soups, casseroles, salads and sauces for an extra dose of protein, iron and fibre.
“Pulses contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals needed to sustain a healthy diet,” says director of education Norm Blaseg. “Increasing our intake of pulses is good for us and the planet.”
This low-fat, low-cost food source is drought-tolerant and frost-hardy. Pulse crops enrich the earth where they are grown, improving the health and long-term fertility of soils.
“Pulses are water efficient and have one of the lowest carbon footprints of any food group,” said Blaseg. “The Eat Pulses challenge will present the opportunity to reflect on how our eating practices directly impact the environment. Everyone is encouraged to participate.”
Rainbow District School Board’s Environmental Committee is issuing monthly challenges to staff and students throughout the school year.
Last month, staff and students were invited to pay it forward by sharing or donating non-perishable food items and gently used clothing.
What will next month’s challenge be?
