Students at Oak Park Elementary School watch their new fish.
Aquaponics in the Classroom
This week, the Green Jean Foundation successfully installed eight aquaponic systems, primarily in STEM labs and science classrooms, reaching nearly 5,000 school students. These systems are more than just educational tools—they are windows into the fascinating world of aquaculture and its role in sustainable food production.
The schools were provided with everything needed to set up their aquaponic systems, including tanks, plants, and even live fish, completely free of charge through a Green Jean program. Teachers were carefully selected to receive these units based on their demonstrated commitment to bringing engaging, hands-on education to their students. By equipping these educators, we’re empowering them to make science and agriculture come alive in the classroom.
Teachers can use these systems to model real-world ecosystems, showing how plants, animals, and microorganisms work together in harmony. Students will gain hands-on experience exploring concepts like water filtration, purification, and nutrient cycling—key processes that mirror those found in nature. Additionally, having live plants and animals in the classroom offers a unique opportunity to discuss environmental stewardship, biodiversity, and the importance of sustainable practices.
By bringing aquaculture into classrooms, we aim to ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking skills in students, helping them make meaningful connections between science, agriculture, and the environment. These systems are also a powerful way to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and agricultural innovators. Together, we’re cultivating agricultural excellence through education!
FDA Bans Red 3
The FDA’s ban on Red No. 3 from all foods, beverages, and ingestible drugs marks a significant step toward addressing health risks associated with synthetic dyes, with companies required to comply by January 2027. Despite this progress, eight artificial food dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, remain approved for use in the U.S., making up 90% of all food dyes used. Found in candies, cereals, and brightly colored foods, these dyes are linked to health risks such as cancer, hyperactivity, and ADHD, particularly in children. Major companies like Mars, General Mills, and Kellogg’s continue to use synthetic dyes in products such as Skittles, M&Ms, Trix, and Lucky Charms, despite past commitments to phase them out.
The growing demand for healthier food options and increased regulatory scrutiny could lead to broader bans on synthetic dyes. These regulatory changes may significantly impact the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
The Green Jean Foundation, committed to agricultural excellence through education, will continue to promote information for healthy nutrition via our online platforms and school programs. By empowering students and communities with knowledge about sustainable and nutritious food choices, the foundation aims to play a key role in shaping healthier future generations.
Stay informed and take action for healthier nutrition choices! Join the Green Jean Foundation newsletter to receive updates on food safety, healthy eating tips, and our efforts to empower the next generation through education. Together, we can build a healthier future for our communities.
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