There are many products available these days that claim to be essential for good health, and claim to be the answer to a vast range of health problems and offer preventative qualities. Flax seed oil is one such food which is generally thought of as a supplement, but actually it is a food. At Ripe, we generally don't stock supplements, instead focusing on high quality Organic food products. A healthy and balanced diet, free from artificial chemicals and additives always the best approach to good health and preventing disease and infections. There is no magical supplement that can overcome a poor diet, but there are foods that offer very specific nutritional elements that are essential to maintaining overall good health.

Flax seed oil is a food that is high in Omega-3, an essential fatty acid required for a healthy body. Human cells, tissues, glands, and organs all require these essential fatty acids to function properly, but we are unable to manufacture or store them in our bodies. Deficiency results in the progressive deterioration of health, and can be evident in a huge range of health problems, including poor immune system, inability to cope with stress, hormonal problems, dry skin, brittle nails and hair, mental health problems, inflammation, allergies and cardiovascular problems.  (for more information about medical concerns and Omega-3, click here)

  Read more about flaxseed oil, and whole flax seed in our wholefood glossary, with easy everyday recipes for the whole family.

For a limited time at Ripe, we're offering a 20% discount on all Waihi Bush flax seed oils.

One thing I love about buying Organic Produce, instead of the plastic wrapped supermarket stuff (one thing among many), is the handy natural packaging that comes along with it. Take green peas, for example. These little pouches keep the peas fresh and juicy, and offer the delightful task of shelling. I sure don't think about the task of shelling peas as a chore, just sit yourself down with a bowl and a friend or a child or two, and the job is finished in no time. It is tricky, however, not to eat them all before they get into the pot, since they are tasty and sweet raw. You can use the shells as mulch in the garden, or put them around plants in pots outside.

Sweetcorn is another veg with handy packaging. Cooking corn on a barbecue is super easy when you leave the outside leaves on the sweetcorn, as this allows the corn to cook without drying out, and when it is done, just peel the leaves back and you've got a handle to hold the corn to eat off the cob. It is always best to store corn with all the outside layers attached, as these will keep the corn fresh for longer.
Mandarins; organic and juicy, have just begun their season, which is great news for lunch! There is something so happy about the burst of aromatic sweetness that fills the air when you peel a mandarin. The aromatic oils held within the skin burst open when you peel them, releasing their tangy sweet scent into the air. Just as the skins of lemon and lime are often used in recipes, mandarin skin can also be used to add flavour and interest to a range of recipes. Click here to be tempted by a fabulous mandarin chocolate brownie recipe. If you let the peels dry out, they make great fire starters, releasing their scent once again when the volatile oils catch fire along with the kindling.

Organic potatoes are fresh and full of flavour at the moment. We've compiled a quick guide, so that you can choose the best variety to suit your dinner. Some potatoes are better suited to mashing, while others are perfect for roasting or steaming. Click here to read more...

Ruby Red Grapefruit! These gorgeous sweet bitter grapefruits have arrived for Autumn. As a guide to the best local seasonal produce, we've compiled a Seasonal Guide for Autumn. Click on the "whats in Season" button on the right for more details.

Chestnuts are a favourite Autumn snack, and they are nutritious and (compared to other nuts), are low in fat. It is easy to roast them at home in the oven, or on a barbecue.  Click here for instructions.

Hot Soup is back on the menu at Ripe in Albert Park, made with our own organic vegetables, and served with a chunk of Organic Sourdough. Our hearty Lentil Soup is perhaps the most healthy fast food around.