Despite numerous scientific studies involving health concerns with the chemical BPA, the FDA announced that they’ll basically be doing nothing about it – business as usual for now, though they’ll keep monitoring it. So, we continue to lag behind the rest of the civilized world when it comes to food safety, but that’s really no surprise. It’s also worth noting that this announcement from the FDA was in response to a petition from the Natural Resources Defense Council forty one months ago! Not only is the FDA ignoring this health concern, but they’re dragging their heals and stalling as long as possible (the FDA’s announcement was in response to a lawsuit forcing a response).
Cloak VPN for iOS
I’ve started using Cloak VPN for my various iOS devices and laptops. It’s pretty cool so far…incredibly easy to set up and, well, it just works (and is free for a limited use account). I’ll report back once I’ve had a chance to test it out on various other wifi networks. If you’re not sure why a VPN matters, well, you better watch this video. While it highlights just one particular piece of software, there are many ways that other users of the same wireless network can eavesdrop on your network activity. With easy VPN solutions out there, there’s really no reason not to do this!
PiCycle electric bikes
With gas prices rising and expected to continue to do so for, well the rest of our existence, alternative forms of transportation are becoming more and more appealing. Electric bicycles are one option that offer some great functionality with few compromises. Towards the higher end of the spectrum is this $6k PiCycle Limited bicycle from Pi Mobility, which offers a 35-45 mile range at 30mph. Sure, it’s pricey for a bicycle, but when you view it as more of a replacement for a car, it becomes incredibly attractive, especially when you consider the very low maintenance cost and low energy costs.
They also made a cool commercial for this, check it out after the jump below.
Pink Slime in School Lunches
As a follow-up to the story about pink slime in school lunches, the USDA has essentially given it the green light. While officially it will be up to the individual schools to decide if they want to serve this to their kids or not, the reality is that with school budgets already incredibly reduced nationwide, they have no choice but to save a buck or two wherever they can. It’s what the taxpayers are asking for – increased efficiency in schools, reduced expenses, without really considering the consequences of that request. Sigh.
So, what can you do if this is something you care about as a parent? Well it’s simple – pack a lunch for your kid(s). Also face the reality, that while disgusting and potentially bacteria-laden (micro-biologists consider this a high risk food product), this pink slime is theoretically OK to eat and the real impact on a body is probably minimal, especially if ingested in moderation.
Keep pink slime out of school lunches!
Ok, so some of you are reading this headline and are a bit confused, I realized. Pink slime? Yeah, it’s what passes for hamburger in our schools and fast food restaurants. Treehugger has a recent article about a whistleblower from this industry, check it out for all sorts of background info.
Anyway, there’s a petition at change.org to ask the USDA to stop the use of pink slime in the National School Lunch Program. They’re closing in on their goal of 300,000 signatures and need your help! You can find the petition here.