Bangtao Beach and the Call to Sustainable Action: The Case for Durbl Products

As spring unfolds and we inch closer to the joys of summer, longer days and warmer weather beckon us outdoors. After spending a sun-soaked morning in the garden, there's nothing quite like the rejuvenation offered by a chilled, homemade soda. Forget about the sugar-heavy commercial drinks; I'm talking about a wholesome, naturally carbonated beverage that's refreshing and rich in probiotics.Creating a customized soda allows you to control both its sweetness and fizziness. The beneficial bacteria in the whey feed on the sugars in the honey, gradually reducing the sweetness over time. If you're a fan of a dryer, slightly tart drink, like I am, you should extend the fermentation by a day or two to achieve the perfect taste. Conversely, if a sweeter touch is what you're after, shortening the fermentation period slightly will keep the sugars intact. Remember, the temperature of your surroundings can significantly affect the fermentation rate, so adjust accordingly.The carbonation magic happens when bacteria produce carbon dioxide during fermentation, creating that delightful fizz when there's no escape route in a sealed bottle. The intensity of the fizz can vary—a testament to the unpredictable yet exciting nature of wild fermentation!One of my favorite recipes involves using overripe fruit or fruit scraps that might otherwise be discarded, like apple peels, pineapple cores, or the tops of strawberries, which lend a subtle flavor and a lovely hue to the drink. This method not only maximizes the use of all parts of the fruits but also varies with the seasons, letting you enjoy a taste of each one throughout the year.As for the whey. A fermentation powerhouse is the liquid that accumulates at the top of the yogurt. If you need more than what naturally separates, you can easily make more by straining the yogurt through a cheesecloth set over a bowl. This whey can then kickstart your soda fermentation, be added to smoothies for a protein boost, or be incorporated into salad dressings and other fermented foods for an added probiotic punch.Homemade Probiotic Fruit Soda RecipeIngredients:● 3 cups filtered water● ½ cup organic honey● ½ cup freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice● ¼ cup fresh whey● Fruit scraps of your choice (e.g., berry tops, apple peels)Method:1. Warm the water in a saucepan over low heat to dissolve the honey.2. Remove from heat and mix in your citrus juice and whey.3. Place the fruit scraps into a clean 1-liter glass jar and pour the liquid over them.4. Seal the jar and let it sit at room temperature for about two days to start fermentation.5. Strain the concoction into a pitcher, funnel it into a sealed bottle, and let it ferment for another 2 to 4 days.6. Check the taste and refrigerate to stop fermentation once you're satisfied with the fizziness and flavor.7. Serve chilled, perhaps with a splash of vodka or rum for an adult twist.This refreshing drink is a delightful way to cool down and a healthful treat supporting digestion and overall well-being. Enjoy crafting your version of this springtime refreshment!

Like many of you, we relish the bright, crisp flavors of salads during the summer months. Here are two delightful salad recipes to grace your table this season, each perfect for your festive gatherings: one served warm and one cool, giving you options to please any palate at your upcoming events. Warm Beet, Blueberry & Pecan Salad● 1-2 bunches of fresh beets● 1/4 cup fresh blueberries● 1/4 cup pecans● 2 tbsp goat cheese● 1 tsp ground cuminMethod● Preheat your oven to 180°C with fan.● Line a roasting tray with parchment paper. Trim the tops off your beets (save the greens for another use), and wash them thoroughly.● Pat the beets dry and halve them. Place them on the prepared tray, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with ground cumin.● Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.● While the beets are roasting, roughly chop the pecans.● Once roasted, arrange the beets in a serving dish. Add dollops of goat cheese, sprinkle with fresh blueberries and chopped pecans. Delight in the blend of flavors!● Optionally, drizzle with additional olive oil or balsamic reduction for an extra touch of flavor. Chilled Cucumber, Radish & Dill Salad● 1 large cucumber● 1 bunch of radishes (about 6-8)● 1/2 a small red onion● 1 tsp mustard seeds● 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar● Juice of 1 limeMethod● Thinly slice the cucumber and radishes using a mandolin or sharp knife.● Finely chop the red onion.● In a serving bowl, combine the cucumber, radishes, and red onion.● Sprinkle over chopped fresh dill and mustard seeds.● Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and lime juice, then toss to combine everything thoroughly.● Chill in the refrigerator before serving to enhance the refreshing, crisp textures and flavors. These recipes highlight the versatility and culinary creativity of summer produce, not just for their fresh tastes but also for their vibrant colors and textures. Whether you're hosting a casual backyard gathering or a more formal dinner affair, these salads are crafted to impress and satisfy your guests. Enjoy the essence of summer with these refreshing, flavorful salads perfect for any occasion. Let the season of freshness begin!

In today’s world, one of the most alarming but least visible threats to our children’s well-being is their exposure to microplastics. According to the recent “Babies Vs. Plastics” report, released to coincide with Earth Day, children are ingesting microplastics at a rate almost ten times higher than adults. These tiny particles, stemming primarily from everyday objects like teething rings, synthetic clothing, and sippy cups, pose serious risks. Why This Is a Bigger Issue Than It Seems Microplastics are not merely a blight on our planet; they are a direct threat to health, especially for the very young. Research highlighted in the report suggests that these particles can travel into critical organs and interfere with essential biological processes, affecting everything from growth patterns to immune system function. Steps Toward a Healthier Tomorrow Acknowledging this danger is only the first step toward protecting our children. Immediate and determined action must follow. One effective way to diminish this exposure is to be thoughtful about the products we surround our children with on a daily basis. Focus on Everyday Choices Begin with an overhaul of the items closest to our children—starting with what they wear, play with, and sleep on. Moving beyond that, examine the broader household environment for potential sources of plastic. In the Kitchen: A Crucial Starting Point Food Preparation: Switch to alternatives such as wooden cutting boards and stainless steel measuring spoons to minimize plastic contact. Food Storage and Reheating: Adopt Durbl silicone containers for food storage and reheating, which unlike plastics, do not shed harmful microplastics. Personal Care and Household Cleaning: Opting for Sustainability Shift away from plastics in personal care by choosing products like solid conditioner bars and natural bristle toothbrushes. In cleaning, choose biodegradable cleaning tools and products, reducing daily plastic waste and exposure. Dining Solutions: Embracing Silicone At mealtime, transform your approach with Durbl silicone containers. Known for their durability and safety, these containers do not release microplastics and are ideal for both storing and serving food. Embrace Change By integrating these alternatives into your lifestyle, you not only protect your children but also align with a global shift towards environmental stewardship. Each step taken is a move towards a future where our children can live free from the burden of plastic pollution. This report calls for immediate action and further research into the impact of microplastics on human health, urging a careful approach to plastic use, particularly in items intended for child use. Our choices today will determine the health of future generations.