Fresh blue cultured mussels are a real knockout when it comes to nutrition. Like any meat, they offer protein, but they go the extra round and beat out beef when it comes to things like Iron and Vitamin B12. To add one final blow and rub it in … mussels are much lower in saturated fats than pork and beef too! It’s no wonder nutritionists consider mussels a nutrition heavyweight.

Every day we hear more about the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids. Not only good on the nerves, they keep your brain and your eyes focused, and serving of mussels satisfies your daily requirement. Scientists are still plumbing the depths of what Omega-3 fatty acids can do for us, linking them to alleviating conditions as diverse as asthma, cancer and depression.

Make it a new tradition at your house to have mussels once a week. Serve nature’s nutrition heavyweight and you will be giving your family a delicious, low fat meal packed with good nutrition. Click here to learn more about the nutritional breakdown of our mussels.

A balanced diet means eating a bit of everything, so no nutrients get left behind, but try telling your kids that, right? It’s a challenge to get your children eating healthy, but we’ve got a few tips to help reel them in and anchor them in healthy habits,

First off, parents should be role models, never give up easily, and avoid resorting to nags and bribes. Meal time is the perfect opportunity to lead by example and show your children how to polish off a plate of brussel sprouts. Or at least talk them through why you’re doing it! After all, there is more to meal time than only satisfying your taste buds.

Another great fact to consider is that a food rejected one day might be a hit next time you introduce it. The versatility of fresh blue mussels lends itself to this exercise. Does your preschooler only eat pizza? Then try our featured recipe - Pizza Inspired Mussels. Your daughter refuses to use a fork? Have fun eating Moules Frites (Mussels with French Fries) with your fingers and a shell.

This lean protein works equally well in soups, salads, casseroles and pastas, so experiment using mussels in place of chicken, shrimp or other more expensive shellfish.

For older children, the healthy diet challenge may be more tied to convenience and hectic schedules. When trying to cram a family meal in between dance, soccer and homework, processed meals seem like an easy answer. The fact is, however, that in less time (5 to 7 minutes) you can steam a pot of fresh blue mussels and toss a salad. Simple and healthy, mussels are low in saturated fat and an excellent source of protein and iron. For more family friendly recipes, click here.

Inviting friends over for a games night is tops on our list for easy entertaining. Teaming up for Trivial Pursuit or releasing your inner tycoon for a friendly game of Monopoly is a fun, social way to mix groups of friends.

The classic game of Twister is not just for kids! In fact the game first became popular in 1966 when Eva Gabour played it on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Adults can have just as much fun playing or watching from the sidelines. Although it has been our experience once a few people start to play everyone wants to join in... You may wish to have some refreshments on hand in case of exertion or a bruised ego.

Everyone loves a simple tip that is easy to remember and saves time! For a juicier lemon, microwave it for 15 seconds before squeezing.

Missed our last two issues? Travel back in time to read them. Go to discovermussels.com for our newsletters and more great recipes.
Bon Appétit!