Grand Canyon Visitors Don’t Need to Take a Vacation from Healthy Eating

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If you’re looking for ways to feel better and eat healthier while on vacation, you might want to pay attention to what’s cooking at the Grand Canyon National Park. This summer, the Grand Canyon South Rim offers vegetarian meals and serves fruit and vegetables as a substitute for French fries in kids’ meals. Some of the healthy entrees include a Mediterranean salad, a garden vegetable pasta dish, and healthy veggie wraps made with lean protein. Basically, the Park offers natural foods that provide functional benefits for visitors embarking on the many Grand Canyon tours.

It’s all part of the Healthy and Sustainable Food Program initiated by the National Park Service which means, all National Parks will now offer nutritious food and beverage choices.

According to Jonathan Jarvis, director of the National Park service, there’s no reason visitors should have to take a vacation from healthy eating while on vacation.

For those who still want a treat on their Grand Canyon vacation, don’t despair: The Park will continue to offer favorites such as pizza, hot dogs, and ice cream.

According to Jarvis, The National Park service teamed up with food supply companies to create new menu items and is encouraging businesses to use organic, locally grown and raised food whenever possible.

Some other options include lentil soup, black bean sliders, fresh tomato soup, and fish tacos. Each year, more than 23 million visitors purchase meals in national parks.

Yellowstone National Park in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho uses locally-grown split peas and lentils in soups, salads and entrees, while Yosemite National Park’s customers can enjoy fresh produce. The meals offered at the Statue of Liberty park are now under 550 calories, and some under 300 calories. Muir Woods in California serves healthy sandwiches and organic muffins and breads from a nearby bakery.

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The Visitor Center also provides healthy alternatives.  Fresh sandwiches, Asian stir fry bowls and salads are available at the center food court.

So, what do you get when you combine great food, nature and family? A truly memorable vacation.