JAN 209 - Decoding the Subtext of Labels

Course Meeting Days & Times:  MTThF, 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Instructor(s): Borges, Filomena

Email: fborges@stmarys-ca.edu

Fee: $125

Course Description:  Labels on everything from food to make-up / personal care products, from medicine to household cleaning products are billboards replete with information waiting to be digested. But what do they mean? What do their certifications tell us? What do sections like “nutrition facts” or “drug information” communicate to the consumer? And how does the consumer know what is safe or potentially harmful?

In this course, we will delve into these questions while exploring the intersections of the food, drug, and personal care industries and their effects on both the environment and human health. We will examine what is healthy with a holistic lens based in biology and scientific inquiry.

Students will learn how to personalize a meal plan with food inclusivity in mind and how to make healthy versions of popular college foods, personal care products and household cleaning products.

While we will study many problems, we will also explore solutions and positive ways to address these issues so that you can feel empowered and invigorated with not only knowledge but also with tools to be part of the solution.

PLEASE NOTE: This course will include the topics of food inclusivity & allergy-consciousness. While foods will be gluten-free, students who tolerate gluten will be able to apply the concepts learned in class to foods that contain gluten. This course is appropriate for all eating styles from vegan to paleo.

In-class projects: ramen, pizza, cookies, breakfast options & beverages.
Demo recipes: wholesome breakfasts, nourishing 1-pot meals, simple snacks & decadent desserts.

This is a fully remote class.

Prerequisites & Notes
None

Credits: 3