National Kale Day
National Kale Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the superfood known for its health benefits, culinary versatility, and efforts to promote its consumption and cultivation throughout America. This day highlights kale’s role as an essential part of a healthy diet, and it’s celebrated every year with various events and activities.
Quick Facts
- When is it: The first Wednesday in October
- Tagged as: Agriculture, Food & Drink
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalKaleDay
- When was it founded: 2013
- Who founded it: Chef Jennifer Iserloh and Dr. Drew Ramsey
History of National Kale Day
National Kale Day was founded by Chef Jennifer Iserloh and Dr. Drew Ramsey in 2013 to promote the health benefits and culinary applications of kale. They launched a petition on Change.org to give the observance legitimacy. Kale, a cruciferous vegetable, has been around since ancient times, gaining recognition for its nutritional content as a superfood in recent years.
Timeline
- 2000 B.C.: Kale is first cultivated in Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean.
- 400 B.C.: Curly and flat-leaved kale variants were in supply in ancient Greece.
- 1200s-1300s: Kale is distinguished from hard-headed cabbage in western Europe.
- 1800s: Russian traders introduce kale to Canada and the United States.
- 2010s: Kale becomes recognized as a superfood and gains popularity.
Dates by Next Five Years
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 7 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | October 6 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | October 4 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | October 3 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Kale Day is observed by:
- Hosting a kale party or potluck where guests bring their favorite kale dishes.
- Sharing kale recipes on social media.
- Buying kale seeds or visiting farms to learn more about growing kale.
- Trying out new kale recipes, from kale chips to kale pizza.
Fun Facts About Kale
- Kale is known for containing more than 45 compounds that support health, including fighting obesity, heart disease, and cancer.
- It contains high amounts of Vitamin C, K, A, and is a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, and B6.
- Kale can be eaten both cooked and raw, though cooking can make it easier on the digestive system.
Quiz
- Who founded National Kale Day? (Answers: Chef Jennifer Iserloh and Dr. Drew Ramsey)
- What are two health benefits of kale? (Answers: Supports bone health, boosts the immune system)
FAQs
- Can kale be eaten raw?
Yes, kale can be eaten raw, but it is often easier to digest when cooked. - What are some popular kale recipes?
Kale chips, salads, smoothies, pizza, and even kale popcorn are among the favorites.
Importance of National Kale Day
National Kale Day serves as a reminder of the importance of incorporating nutrient-dense foods into our diets. It encourages people to try new recipes, learn about the health benefits of kale, and support local agriculture by growing or buying kale.
Related
- World Vegetarian Day
- No Meat May
- National Green Juice Day
- National Custodial Worker Recognition Day
- National Name Your Car Day
By celebrating National Kale Day, we embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes health, supports sustainable agriculture, and promotes the joy of cooking with kale.