The first Wednesday in October gives us the opportunity to celebrate National Kale Day each year, falling on October 1 this year. The celebration sheds light on the versatility and amazing health benefits of kale. The observance plays a crucial role in increasing awareness and encouraging the eating and growing of kale. It is a staple food in any healthy diet plan. Join the celebrations as we eat healthy to mark National Kale Day.
History of National Kale Day
Originating in Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean, kale was cultivated for consumption as early as 2000 B.C. Cabbage variants with curly leaves were in supply in 400 B.C. Greece, alongside the flat-leaved ones. These early variants are said to be the predecessors of what we now call kale. The Romans called it Sabellian kale.
The first mention of cabbages in western Europe emerged in the 1200s and was concerned with hard-headed cabbage. Records from the 1300s highlight the differences between loose-leafed kale and hard-headed cabbage.
In the 1800s, Russian traders brought kale into Canada and subsequently the United States. David Fairchild, a USDA botanist, gets the credit for introducing kale to America. He brought it from Croatia despite disliking cabbages, kale included. The easy nature of cultivation and its affordability were responsible for its popularity in Croatia. Desalination of soil was another great benefit.
During the Second World War, the Dig for Victory campaign promoted kale cultivation in Britain. At the time, the vegetable was the perfect candidate for cultivation because it provided crucial nutrients lacking from meals due to rationing. Kale was used typically for decoration in the U.S. It gained recognition as an edible food during the 1990s because of its rich nutritional value.
The 2010s saw kale gain popularity; becoming a diet favorite despite other vegetables being just as rich in nutrients. National Kale Day was founded by Chef Jennifer Iserloh and Dr. Drew Ramsey to celebrate the health benefits of kale and its many culinary applications. They entered a petition at Change.org aimed at giving the observance legitimacy.
National Kale Day timeline
Kale is cultivated for food for the first time in Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean.
Records in Britain during the 1300s differentiate between loose-leaf kale and hard-head cabbage.
Russian traders introduce kale to Canada and then the United States.
Chef Jennifer Iserloh and Dr. Drew Ramsey create National Kale Day to celebrate the amazing vegetable.
National Kale Day FAQs
Is raw kale healthy?
Cancer research reveals that kale has more benefits when eaten raw. Cholesterol studies, on the other hand, suggest that kale is more beneficial when steamed.
Does kale digest easily?
Green veggies have high levels of fiber, which can take time to digest. Bacteria in your gut use the fiber as energy; resulting in gas.
Are there side effects from eating kale?
Eating kale can result in bloating for people who find it difficult to digest carbohydrates found in foods like beans and wheat.
National Kale Day Activities
Host a kale party
There’s no party like a kale party! Throw a party at work or school and serve special kale-inspired dishes.
Host a potluck
Have a potluck at your home with friends and family. Attendees can bring their best kale dishes.
Share a recipe or serving tips
Share your favorite kale recipe on social media to add to the fun. Serving tips using kale are also in high demand.
5 Facts About Kale That Will Blow Your Mind
Huge calcium load
One serving of kale provides more absorbable calcium than you will find in a small-sized carton of milk.
Topping the charts
Between 2007 and 2015, kale farming increased by almost 60%.
Icky habits
Kale is among crops with the highest likelihood of holding residual pesticides.
Cancer repellent vegetable
Kale has significant amounts of cancer-fighting nutrients, such as glucosinolate phytonutrients, which offer protection against tumor growth and cancer-related enzymes.
Busy vegetable
Kale is an ingredient in skincare products and even nail polish.
Why We Love National Kale Day
Kale is a superfood
Kale is a superfood, providing high amounts of fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. What’s not to like?
It stays fresh
Kale is a hearty vegetable. It can last for one week in the refrigerator.
It’s cheap and accessible
Kale is among the easiest crops to cultivate and it is the perfect way to celebrate American farming.
National Kale Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | October 6 | Wednesday |
| 2022 | October 5 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | October 4 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | October 2 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
