Fun Facts About Spinach
- Spinach is a native plant of Persia, modern day Iran. It was introduced to China in the 7th century and was most probably brought to Europe in about the 12th century and to the US in 1806.
- In the 10 years from 1992-2002, the annual consumption of spinach jumped 66% mostly due to the availability of pre-cut bagged spinach. In a survey conducted by Bon Appetit magazine in 2005, 56% respondents toted spinach as their favorite vegetable.
- Spinach is one of the few vegetables that is available year-round. It grows best in cool, not freezing, moist condition especially during spring and autumn. It grows well in sandy soils.
- California is the number 1 U.S. grower/supplier of fresh and processed spinach accounting for almost 75% of national production. Processed spinach can be canned, frozen, or pureed for baby food.
- Popeye, a cartoon, was introduced in 1929 and U.S. spinach growers credited him with a 33% increase in domestic spinach consumption. It was a welcome boost especially during the depression era. Popeye was very strong because he ate spinach every day—that was the message he delivered in each cartoon. For many years, spinach was the third most popular children’s food after turkey and ice cream.
What’s Included in the Spinach Lesson Plan
- History
- Tips & recipes
- Nutritional information
- Presenter outline & talking points
- Sticker template
- PowerPoint presentation
- Student handouts
Can’t get enough fruits and veggies? Every month we feature a new fruit or veggie. Get fun facts, recipes, and more!
South Dakotans aren’t getting enough… (especially veggies) and it’s hurting our health. The good news is that more matters and all we need to do is get 5 a day.