What we’re reading: 7/8

Watch what you eat. Over-refined sugars, highly refined and saturated fats, animal proteins and little plant-based fibers dominate the so-called “Western diet.” Processed food consumption is quickly spreading to the rest of the world, though. CNN shares the health implications of this calorie-laden, limited physical activity lifestyle.

Foodborne illness. As many as 48 million Americans get sick from contaminated food each year. Foods can become contaminated between preparation and packaging, and natural foods can be contaminated, too. The Wall Street Journal

How do you pronounce that? Kohlrabi, purslane, young peas and Romanesco are three greens that you can find at farmers markets. NPR explains what they are and how to prepare them.

Building with butter. Ever seen a butter sculpture? It’s a popular attraction at state fairs (and the Pennsylvania Farm Show). Food Network Dish gives us the details on the history and mechanics of these dairy masterpieces.