Essential Ingredients Podcast 041: Mindful Foodies: Eating Smart, Wasting Nothing with Janet Irizarry
Episode Description:
“I want to create a world of mindful foodies. I don't see this as a little project. I see this as something big.” —Janet Irizarry
Every bite we take is a vote for the planet's future, and our children are the most powerful voters we have. By modeling mindful eating to them, we can transform how future generations understand and respect the journey of their food.
Janet Irizarry is a culinary innovator and passionate educator who has dedicated her professional life to reshaping how families approach food sustainability. As an instructor at the Culinary Institute of America and founder of The MMK Method, she bridges culinary expertise with environmental consciousness.
Listen as Justine and Janet unpack the secrets of reducing household food waste, creative strategies for involving kids in mindful eating, insights about food storage and preservation, the profound environmental impact of conscious consumption, and practical, joy-filled approaches to transforming kitchen habits that benefit both families and the planet.
Meet Janet:
Janet Irizarry, M.Ed, is the founder of the My Mindful Kitchen (MMK) Method, a program dedicated to fostering mindful eating, sustainability, and well-being. With a Master’s in Education from Arizona State University and extensive experience in teaching, instructional design, and hospitality, she develops impactful courses at The Culinary Institute of America and advocates for food sustainability as Editor of Hudson Valley EATS. Passionate about reducing food waste, Janet collaborates with initiatives like Food Waste Prevention Week and inspires positive change through education, community engagement, and her innovative MMK Method.
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Episode Highlights:
03:26 Raising the Next Generation of Mindful Foodies
05:44 The MMK Method
10:52 Practical Tips for Reducing Food Waste
15:57 The Role of Mindfulness and Family Involvement
26:23 The Impact of the MMK Method
31:55 Creating at Home Change