Written by Anna Horsch, Dietetic Intern, University of Minnesota School of Public Health

Updated June 19, 2024

A review by Tilley Distribution in 2021 reported 15% of American consumers they include fermented foods to improve digestive health. Kombucha is the top-selling fermented food in the United States!(1)

 

Fermented foods provide an abundance of benefits for children, all the way from babies to teenagers. They contain probiotics, which help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion. When the gut is functioning optimally, the rest of the body follows suit. Nutrients are more readily absorbed, immune system function is enhanced, inflammation is reduced, and there is even growing evidence that mental health can be improved. In this blog, we will delve into the different types of fermented products available.

 

 

Fermented Foods for Children and Adolescence

Fermented foods provide an abundance of benefits for children, all the way from babies to teenagers. They contain probiotics, which help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion. When the gut is functioning optimally, the rest of the body follows suit. Nutrients are more readily absorbed, immune system function is enhanced, inflammation is reduced, and there is even growing evidence that mental health can be improved. In this blog, we will delve into the different types of fermented products available at Mackenthuns and share fun and creative ways for kids to enjoy them.

Current Availability of Fermented Foods

Fage Greek Yogurt Available in the Mackenthun's Dairy Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
Good Culture Cream Cheese Available in the Mackenthun's Dairy Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
Bubbies Sauerkraut Available in the Mackenthun's Meat Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
GTS Synergy Kombucha Available in the Mackenthun's Produce Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
Traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables with a variety of seasonings including chili powder, garlic, ginger, and scallions. If you have a shellfish allergy, make sure to look for vegan or vegetarian kimchi! Available in the Mackenthun's Produce Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
Tempeh is a fermented version of tofu. Available in the Mackenthun's Produce Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch
To enjoy the health benefits of fermented pickles, choose refrigerated varieties. These pickles are typically fermented and packed with probiotics. Additionally, pickles labeled as "Kosher" are often a good indicator of fermentation. Available in the Mackenthun's Meat Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch.
A fermented dairy product created by adding bacteria, yeast, and polysaccharides to milk. Has a similar taste to yogurt. vailable in the Mackenthun's Dairy Department. Image Source: Anna Horsch

Bacon-Wrapped Pickles

By France C, allrecipes.com, Updated September 28, 2022

What You Need

  • 8 pickle spears

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, chilled

  • 8 slices bacon

  • ¼ cup ranch dressing

 
What You Do
  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

     
  2. Pat pickles dry with a paper towel. Cut cream cheese into 8 strips. Place 1 strip onto each pickle, and wrap with a strip of bacon, securing ends with toothpicks if necessary. Place pickles on the baking sheet.

     
  3. Bake in the preheated oven until bacon is browned, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool slightly, then serve with ranch dressing.

Bacon-wrapped pickles by France C

References:

  1. Fermented foods: market trends and opportunities. Tilley Distribution. October 18, 2023. Accessed June 19, 2023. https://www.tilleydistribution.com/fermented-foods-market-trends-opportunities/