QUESTION: When something is USDA certified organic does it mean the farmer doesn’t use pesticides on their crops or orchards?

ANSWER: This is not a yes/no answer. How farmers manage their crops depends on the crop, the climate, the land , and the pressures (rainfall, insects, weeds) during the growing season.

QUESTION: What’s the difference between a “dietitian” and a “nutritionist?”

ANSWER: Great question, especially since it's National Nutrition Month! I am technically a “Registered Dietitian Nutritionist”.  A person who has this title must:

QUESTION: A friend told me about your “Taste of Local” events but I have never gone to one. What are they and when is the next one? 

ANSWER: Our “Taste of Local” events are a way for our customers to meet some of our local farmers and vendors.

QUESTION: What are the different grades of meat and what does it mean?

ANSWER: The major grades of meat are: Prime, Choice, Select. These are known as “quality grades” and reflect the tenderness and juiciness of the meat due to marbling (fat content) of the meat.

QUESTION: I have heard a lot about quinoa but I don’t know how to cook it.

ANSWER: Quinoa is often called an “ancient grain” and it is a relative of spinach. It is primarily cultivated in South America and is gluten-free.

QUESTION: I have lactose intolerance. Is it better for me to buy goat's milk and cheeses than cow's milk and cheeses?

ANSWER: Lactose is the naturally occurring sugar found in milk from mammals whether cow, sheep or goats. Some individuals have lactose intolerance or acquire this as they grow older. Their bodies do not produce enough of the enzyme (lactase) to help digest the lactose so they have gastrointestinal issues like gas, bloating and diarrhea.

QUESTION: Where does Ingles Laura Lynn milk come from?

ANSWER: Most (80%) of the dairy farmers who supply Ingles Markets with Laura Lynn milk live within about 100-150 miles of Asheville. These dairy farms generally have about 100-200 cows and are family owned like English Farm in Marion NC and Ramsey Dairy Farm in Fairview.

QUESTION: Do you do talks for the public and if so, what is the cost?

Answer: Yes! I frequently do presentations on nutrition and food related topics for various non-profit groups, students, and community organizations. I request that you have a minimum of 50 people in attendance for the presentation. There is no cost. The best way to check on my availability is to e-mail me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call me at: 800-334-4936.

QUESTION: Should I be worried about BPA liners in cans and be buying BPA-free cans?

Answer: While some brands do offer BPA-free cans this is not commonplace and this is typically noted on the label. 

QUESTION: I get bored with my plain old oatmeal. Can you give me some ideas on some different things to add to it?

Answer:  Try cooking your oatmeal with milk or flavored non-dairy milk ( like vanilla soy/coconut or almond) to make it more creamy. You can also add in some dried fruit like raisins or chopped dates while cooking the oatmeal.