By Assunta Ng
Northwest Asian Weekly

Chef Ron Youmans, Director of Catering at Keiro Northwest and Peggy Tanemura. (Photo by Assunta Ng/NWAW)
I was surprised to find hemp seeds at Keiro Northwest’s health fair.
“Isn’t this like marijuana?” I got confused between marijuana and the seeds. I don’t know a thing about marijuana.
So I did a little research. According to the internet, hemp contains virtually no psychoactive chemicals, thus, it can’t be considered a drug. Instead, hemp seeds, like flax seeds, has omega fats.
It can improve digestion, balance hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve metabolism.
I took home some samples and added it to my salad. I couldn’t tell the difference when eating the salad. It doesn’t really enhance the taste.
The health fair opened my mind about different health products and encouraged my greediness, too. I took lots of food samples home. Keiro was thoughtful and efficient. Every guest received a free eco bag to stuff goodies.
That’s the direction that health fairs should take. Give out free food, and people would love to come.
I picked the right time to go, during lunch time. I tried all kinds of healthy food. Keiro also promoted its catering service by setting a booth for free sushi and seafood. I won’t disclose how many pieces of shrimp that I ate, except to say that I will be back next year.