WIC KNOWS MORE THAN BEANS ABOUT HEALTHY COOKING

Cooking Demonstrations Offered to WIC Clients

What can you do with a bag of dried beans in the winter? On Jan. 26 the Delaware Division of Public Health's (DPH) Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program will show clients how to turn beans into hearty, healthy soups to ward off the winter chill. This dynamic cooking class is open to all WIC clients and will take place from 12 - 1 p.m. in the Blue Hen Corporate Center test kitchen located at 655 Bay Road, Suite 1C in Dover.

Beans are packed with low-fat protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Studies have shown that incorporating beans into the diet could aid in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. These little wonders are also economical, easily incorporated into soups, and with the simple addition of a whole grain carbohydrate, make a complete, healthy meal.

The beans approved for the WIC program are any mature variety of dried beans without flavoring, spices, or meat added; examples include kidney, black, navy, lima, pinto, black-eyed peas, lentils, or split peas. Registered dietician Megan Christner will teach clients how to prepare a full meal using these beans in 30 minutes, offering nutrition and food tips throughout the class. Samples will be available to all WIC client attendees.

This is a fantastic idea and a great opportunity for our WIC clients to discover different ways to make the most out of the food they prepare for their families." said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH Director.

To learn more about the nutritional value of beans, please visit: www.beaninstitute.com/health-benefits/nutritional-value-of-dry-beans

Additional cooking classes will be available in the future. Please call (302)741-2900 for information or visit www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/chca/dphwichominf01.html The WIC Program is funded by USDA.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.