Who
founded Eat Well Ridgefield and why?
It
all started when Hannah approached Meredith for nutrition advice. When trying
to make healthy eating choices, a restaurant menu can be confusing. "How
do I know what to order?" Better yet, "where should I go out to
eat?" Since no two menus are the same in town, it can be challenging to make
healthy choices and even if you think you're choosing a wise option, you don't
know how the meal is being prepared. Meredith founded Eat Well
Ridgefield to take the guesswork out of dining in Ridgefield.
Is
Eat Well Ridgefield available to all dining establishments?
Yes.
If you are open to working with a Nutrition Therapist to modify 1 or 2 menu
items (if needed), you are eligible!
Why
should I join?
As
a restaurant owner or manager, having approved menu options allows you to
attract a more diverse customer base. People who often eat at home (for health
reasons) will now be able to dine at your establishment with confidence. Since
the menu will be clearly labeled, it takes the guesswork out of healthy eating,
making it a more convenient option for your customers. If multiple restaurants
participate, Ridgefield will gain a reputation for healthy dining that may
encourage people from surrounding towns to come here to dine. Further,
participation shows others that you are committed to the improvement of life in
Ridgefield.
What
kinds of menu changes will make it a healthier choice?
Menu
items designated with the Eat Well Ridgefield icon are made using nutrient
dense, whole foods. Processed
foods, such as canned goods, are not included in any recipe and organic options
are used whenever available. Additional considerations, such as varied
nutrients and healthy fats will be incorporated. For example, when cooking at high temperatures, many oils
become carcinogenic. Additionally, certain fats are essential to health, while
others are detrimental. This
information influences preparation methods and product choices. Finally, a
vegetarian option will be included on menus where feasible. We also want to make sure to make 1-2 menu
changes (if needed) that reflect the restaurant’s cuisine authenticity and vision as much as
possible.
How
can customers know what menu items are apart of the program?
Menu
items will be clearly labeled with the Eat Well Ridgefield icon (to be created!).
What
is the process if I want to join?
Simply
email Meredith at
EatWellRidgefield@gmail.com stating your
interest. We will respond to you as quickly as possible to enroll. Once
enrolled, we will set up a meeting at your convenience to review the menu and
speak with the Chef. If changes are necessary, the Nutrition Therapist will then
make recommendations and work closely with your Chef for implementation. A
digital file with the Eat Well Ridgefield icon will be provided for your new
menu. You will also be provided
with a decal for your storefront window to let people know you are participating.
What's
the catch?
There
is no catch! That's the beauty of Eat Well Ridgefield- everyone benefits. Promoting
healthy options in local dining establishments promotes the well being of
customers, encourages people to dine at participating restaurants and spreads
awareness of eating a balanced, nutrient rich diet.
How
will people know I'm participating?
Once
a revised menu has been established and printed, you will be provided with a
decal to place in your storefront window.
Additionally, we will have a running list of participants available on
our website,
EatWellRidgefield.blogspot.com.
If
I join and change my mind later, can I opt out?
Participation
in Eat Well Ridgefield is completely voluntary. We encourage you to get
involved purely based on your desire to enhance the Ridgefield community!
Is Eat Well Ridgefield town mandatory?
While
First Selectman, Rudy Marconi, encourages participation, it is entirely up to
the restaurant to join.
When
does Eat Well Ridgefield start?
Eat
Well Ridgefield begins as soon as the first restaurant signs up to participate.
Please note that because Meredith will be visiting all restaurants
personally, appointments will be made on a first come, first served basis. We promise to get you up and running
with Eat Well Ridgefield as quickly and efficiently as possible.
What
kind of Nutrition training does Meredith have?
Meredith
received her Nutrition Therapy training from Nutrition Therapy Institute in
Boulder, CO.
Where
can I find out more about healthy eating?
Meredith
will share a weekly article in the Ridgefield Press that offers helpful tips
and information on nutrition-related topics. Here, you'll find out about everything from GMO's to vitamin
supplements. Of course, you can also visit Meredith at
CucumberAndChamomile.com. For recipes and
additional information about Meredith's practice go to her website.
How
can I contact Eat Well Ridgefield?
If
you have additional questions or comments, please e-mail Meredith at
EatWellRidgefield@gmail.com. We will continue to update our F.A.Q. accordingly.
