National French Fry Day: Dos and Don’ts
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July 13, 2015National French Fry Day: Dos and Don’ts
The random designated day to celebrate french fries will take place July 13. If you haven’t already, you will likely begin to see TV commercials and general advertisements of big restaurants luring people in by giving away free french fries on and around that day. If you quickly search “National French Fry Day” on the Internet, you will come across articles heralding the out-of-this-world, enchanting, jaw-dropping awesomeness that is the french fry. Did you know they come in waffle fries, crinkle fries, and curly fries!? You can even dip them in gravy, ketchup, mayonnaise, ranch dressing — anything your heart desires! You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes! Bake them instead of frying them! The possibilities are ENDLESS!
At the risk of being too much of a buzzkill to those people who are actually excited about this holiday, it should be noted not everyone feels the same way. It’s undeniable french fries are a tasty treat — but to have a whole day dedicated to them? Seems like a bit of a marketing scheme to boost sales for french fry-serving establishments. Nonetheless, it’s totally acceptable to enjoy some french fries on National French Fry Day. Keep in mind there are better ways to celebrate than others.
Don’t Overindulge
We all keep hearing about the growing waistlines of Americans. There are numerous factors contributing to obesity in America, one of which is portion size. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the average American ate almost 20 percent more calories in 2000 than they did in 1983. So when you’re eating french fries on National French Fry Day, pay attention to how much you’re eating and if you’re actually hungry. Plus, no one enjoys a stomach ache.
Skip Fast-Food French Fries
The World Health Organization has found a rise in fast-food sales correlates to a rise in body mass index. Given 11 percent of the average American diet is made up of fast-food products, it’s safe to say fast food is a huge reason Americans are obese. Health ramifications aside, some fast-food corporations negatively impact the environment around us. In meeting the demand for meat in their restaurants, McDonald’s has contributed significantly to deforestation of the rain forests in Brazil. The corporation has been targeted for the inhumane treatment of animals, and has a history of not revealing ingredient sources. If you want to eat fries on July 13, choose a local establishment to support. Their fries will be unarguably tastier as well.
Try DIY French Fries
If going out to eat isn’t your style, or you’ve never tried cooking french fries at home, whipping up a french fry recipe in your own kitchen could be a better alternative to eating out this National French Fry Day. You’re also more likely to create a healthy option. Consider baking fries instead of frying them. Really hot oil — hot enough to fry food — is high in trans fats. Trans fats have been shown to increase bad cholesterol, reduce beneficial cholesterol, and promote heart attacks and strokes.
When National French Fry Day rolls around, remember to choose a small restaurant over fast-food chains. You’ll feel better about supporting a locally-owned business, rather than a monolith like McDonald’s. You might even make some fries at home, where you can get creative. No matter where you choose to go for your fry fix, just don’t eat too much. The world already thinks we’re too fat.
