Month: December 2023

2023-12-05T12:01:00

(BPT) – As a business owner, you know it’s best to expect the unexpected. This isn’t just a wise strategy for business deals. It also applies to property emergencies.

Even with your best efforts, you can’t prevent natural disasters or other risks to your establishments. That’s why it’s critical to create an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). An EAP is a set of procedures that outlines how your workplace will respond to various emergencies, including fires, severe weather, chemical spills and floods.

By prioritizing emergency preparedness, you can protect your business and create a safe environment for employees and customers who enter your buildings.

What does an EAP include?

Typically, an EAP includes evacuation procedures, contact information and emergency communication protocols. An EAP is a proactive approach to emergency preparedness that minimizes business disruption and downtime in the event of an emergency.

Knowing how to create an EAP can be difficult, but you can start by conducting a risk assessment. A risk assessment will help identify potential hazards in the workplace, their likelihood, and their potential impact on the business operations. Working with professionals like Rainbow Restoration^® can help accurately evaluate risks, taking the guesswork out of disaster preparedness. After an evaluation, the company can also help you create an emergency response plan.

Roles, responsibilities and communication

A successful EAP assigns roles and responsibilities to employees who must implement the plan should an emergency occur.

A great way to define roles and assign responsibilities is to organize staff meetings on emergency preparedness. These meetings can help ensure everyone is well-prepared and knows the part they’ll play in an emergency. This is also the perfect opportunity to outline a chain of command within an organization that can help streamline decision-making during crises.

Once roles and responsibilities have been established, it’s essential to establish communication protocols. Effective communication allows employees to stay in touch, share critical information and enhance emergency response efforts. A communication protocol may include setting up emergency communication devices and developing plans for communication with employees, customers and suppliers.

You can expedite emergency response by downloading a tool like Rainbow Emergency Call app. This mobile app allows you to build digital reports, take live photos of a property during emergencies, and communicate arrival instructions to service professionals. You can download and use this app to immediately access vital resources during critical situations after an emergency response plan is created.

Once you establish an EAP, regularly review and update safety protocols to stay current with evolving best practices and regulations. Also, practicing an emergency action plan at least once a quarter helps ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.

Preparing your business for fire emergencies and restoration

Fire emergency plans and restoration are critical components of any emergency response plan. In the fall and winter, it’s important for business owners to take the initiative to assess a property’s vulnerability to fire and educate themselves about the risks and recovery processes associated with fire damage. Being prepared in advance can make all the difference in ensuring the safety of employees and customers, as well as the longevity of your business.

Fires damage the structural integrity of your property and pose risks to the health and safety of occupants. The heat generated by fires can weaken your building’s structure, making it unsafe for use, while the smoke and soot can lead to respiratory issues and health problems. Beyond the fire itself, the chemicals used to extinguish fires can also be hazardous if not adequately cleaned up.

Should a fire occur, it’s essential to quickly and safely restore your property. Fire damage can also lead to lost revenue, inventory damage, equipment loss and prolonged downtime, which can financially devastate your businesses. However, when creating a fire restoration plan for your EAP, it’s best to collaborate with a professional to avoid common mistakes that can lead to additional property damage and health hazards.

Common fire damage repair mistakes include waiting too long to start the restoration process, neglecting to address water damage, failing to document damage, and attempting to handle the restoration yourself.

Professional restoration companies, like Rainbow Restoration, have the expertise and experience necessary to assess damage, identify potential hazards and create a safe and efficient restoration plan. They provide rapid response, thoroughly restore and clean your property and document damage. Hiring professionals ensures a smoother recovery process and reduces the risk of additional damage and health hazards.

A commitment to safety is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one. By prioritizing emergency preparedness, business owners and facility managers create a secure environment that promotes the well-being of all those who enter the building. To learn more about how you can collaborate with a professional to create a strong EAP, visit RainbowRestores.com.

2023-12-05T06:09:00

(BPT) – Some foodies love to eat, and some foodies love to create. For those on your holiday gift list, here are ideas that will excite even the most discerning culinary creator.

For the coffee lover who waxes eloquent about beans

The JURA GIGA 10 offers 35 different brew options, from intense espresso to trendy flat white, plus a full range of genuine cold brew specialties at the touch of a button. It offers a luxury coffee experience, with two bean containers, each with its own ceramic disc grinder, designed for maximum grinding quality and versatility. The touch-operated panorama coffee panel is extremely user-friendly, making it easy to customize your beverage in multiple ways. The stunning design is meant to be shown off in the kitchen or curated coffee bar.

For the perfectionist chef

A few degrees can make the difference between a juicy filet and a ruined steak. The CDN Lollipop Thermometer is an advanced model designed for perfectionist home chefs. The 1.5mm thin tip is ideal for even the thinnest cuts of meat, and it’s incredibly accurate to one-tenth of a degree, helping cook an expensive Wagyu filet to perfection.

For the chef who wants to take the show on the road

The Tramontina GURU is a portable induction cooktop that works anywhere with a power outlet — for wandering chefs or those who want to expand or upgrade cooking options at home. This lightweight, high-performance cooktop features a built-in precision scale, safety features, and connectivity to a smartphone or tablet for access to curated recipes and video instruction. The GURU starter set includes cookware and online resources for recipes, techniques, and nutritional information.

For hard-core bakers and bread makers

Serious bakers and bread makers know that the Ankarsrum Assistent Original Mixer is the gold standard for producing the best dough. This versatile Swedish-made mixer is renowned for power and long-term reliability. Its unique kneading motion produces pro-level results, whether you’re making a cake, whipping a meringue, or preparing multiple loaves of bread at a time. With 14 vibrant colors, there’s a perfect Ankarsrum mixer for any kitchen.

For iced tea fanatics

Iced tea lovers will wonder how they survived before the Capresso Iced Tea Select. It brews an entire pitcher of plain or flavored iced tea at the press of a button. The reusable filter holds loose tea or tea bags, and brew strength is easy to customize. Add fresh or frozen fruit for refreshing tea beverages all year round.

2023-12-04T23:01:00

(BPT) – In a world where toy trends seem to change faster than a child can unwrap a gift, parents, guardians and gift-givers are constantly on the lookout for the perfect present that will both excite and enrich a child’s life. According to Fidelity Investments’^® 2023 Gifting Study, a surprising revelation has emerged: a significant majority of parents are not only open to but prefer contributions to their child’s college fund over traditional holiday gifts.

The study, which surveyed a diverse group of parents and guardians across the country, found that a staggering 79% of respondents would welcome contributions to their child’s college savings account in lieu of the usual array of toys and gadgets. Even more compelling, 2 in 3 would even prefer this forward-thinking approach to gift-giving. This sheds light on a growing awareness among parents about the long-term benefits of investing in their child’s education from an early age.

Gift-giving for kids has traditionally revolved around the latest toys, games and electronic devices. However, the rising cost of education has prompted a shift in parental priorities. Many parents are recognizing the importance of building a financial foundation for their child’s future, and what better way to do that than by contributing to a 529 college savings account?

Tony Durkan, vice president, head of 529 relationship management at Fidelity Investments, emphasizes the developmental benefits behind these trends. “Children often receive so much in the way of material possessions, but contributing to their education sends a powerful message about the value of long-term goals and planning for the future. It instills a sense of responsibility and demonstrates that education is a priority for the entire family.”

While traditional toys and games certainly have their place in a child’s life, the gift of education is timeless and enduring. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends now have an opportunity to contribute not only to the joy of the present moment but also to a child’s lifelong journey of learning and growth. Fidelity has an easy-to-use gifting tool that ensures a seamless experience and recent legislation has also made it even more flexible for friends and family to give to a 529 account without the worry of a child’s future education plan now that some funds can be transferred into retirement savings like a Roth IRA for that child.

So, with so many gifting occasions throughout the year, consider making a lasting impact with a gift that truly keeps on giving — a contribution to a child’s college fund. It’s a choice that resonates with the spirit of the season, embodying the essence of generosity, and a commitment to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

For more information about the gifting study and 529 college savings accounts, visit Go.Fidelity.com/GiftingStudy23.

2023-12-05T06:01:01

(BPT) – No matter the season, playing outside was the apex of childhood fun. Whether it was playing catch with a neighbor or building a fort or top-secret club house — spending the entire day outdoors was what kids did. However, things are different now, and with winter on the horizon, it’s easy for kids to stay indoors and glued to a screen or a book. Not only do these activities keep kids from getting some exercise, but it can also impact their eye health.

Did you know too much time doing “near work” — looking at things close up — can lead to myopia? Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a disease affecting the ability to clearly see objects that are far away. Good vision is crucial to children doing their best in school and experiencing success as they grow and learn, but myopia is increasing rapidly, with 50% of the population being at risk by 2050. But the good news is, you can take proactive steps to help prevent myopia and limit its impact on your child’s vision. Even better, those steps can involve revisiting your favorite winter memories from childhood with your own kids.

“Children with myopia are at greater risk for sight-threatening diseases later in life. For example, a child with medium to high myopia is five times more likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma,” said Dr. Millicent Knight, OD, senior vice president, EssilorLuxottica.”But you can make a difference and be proactive now. For example, take advantage of the opportunity to use your health benefits by the end of the year to bring your child in for a comprehensive eye exam.”

The Global Myopia Awareness Coalition (GMAC) offers these tips for improving your child’s eye health.

Create a sight sanctuary

Outdoor play offers countless benefits, including eye health. Studies show children who spend just one hour outdoors each day can reduce their risk of developing myopia by 14%. Being outdoors and focusing on objects in the distance gives children a chance to relax their eye muscles, especially after hours of staring at screens.

Even when it’s chilly, bundle kids up and get them outside to give their eyes a much-needed break. To encourage outdoor play, create a “sight sanctuary” — an outdoor play space dedicated to building snow forts or snow people, playing winter sports, having snowball fights or sledding, where kids can take a break from screen time that can contribute to myopia.

You can instill excitement about the outdoors and your sight sanctuary with holiday gifts like a new sled, ice skates or snowshoes. Make it a family snow day with a “snow person kit” complete with scarves, big button eyes and carrot noses for everyone to pitch in and build a snow family.

Limit screen time

You can also track kids’ screen time to ensure that they get plenty of breaks from near work. Most Wi-Fi systems allow parents to pause or limit screen time. Offer alternative activities — especially if it’s too cold or icy to play outdoors — like baking, charades or dance parties.

See an eye care professional

To safeguard your child’s eye health, it’s vital to make annual comprehensive eye exams a priority. While pediatrician vision screenings can be helpful, they miss up to 75% of children with vision problems — and provide less than 4% of the information obtained in a comprehensive exam by an eye care professional, according to the American Optometric Association.

Eye doctors use specialized equipment to capture a thorough picture of your child’s eye health and vision to spot and diagnose eye diseases like myopia early, making treatment more effective. While visiting the eye doctor, ask about new myopia treatment options available in your area, including:

• Orthokeratology lenses: Gas permeable lenses worn while asleep and removed when awake create a temporary change in cornea shape and simultaneously slow low-to-moderate myopia conditions so that glasses aren’t needed during the day.
• Contact lenses: Soft multifocal or dual-focus contact lenses — typically used to improve near vision in people over 40 — have been shown to correct myopic vision in children while simultaneously slowing myopia progression by decreasing eye growth.
• Low-dose atropine eye drops: Atropine dilates the pupil and relaxes the eyes’ focusing mechanism. Clinical trials indicate low-dose atropine eye drops can slow myopia progression in children.
• Glasses: For children who may not be ready for contact lenses, myopia-control glasses are another option. Talk to your eyecare provider about the best solution for your child.

Need to use health benefits by year’s end? Now’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. Visit MyopiaAwareness.org for more information and resources, including a doctor discussion guide to aid your child’s upcoming eye appointment.

2023-12-04T11:41:00

(BPT) – Food shouldn’t be an impossible choice. Everyone needs nutritious foods to thrive. Yet, new data show food and nutrition insecurity are on the rise. According to the recent U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data, over 44 million people in the U.S., including 13.4 million children, struggle with food insecurity.

Food insecurity — not having enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle — can impact anyone. Regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, ability, geography or national origin, hunger is universal. People are facing hunger in every county in the U.S., including many students on college campuses nationwide. This is according to Carrie Hamady, EdD, MS, RD, LD, Chair of the Department of Public and Allied Health at Bowling Green State University and an ambassador to National Dairy Council. Hamady points out that, “students should not have to choose between tuition or nutrition, families shouldn’t have to decide between the gas bill or groceries and seniors shouldn’t be forced to pick medicine over a meal.”

The interplay of food insecurity and nutrition

Related to food insecurity is nutrition insecurity, when someone does not have consistent and equitable access to nutritious, safe and affordable foods and beverages that promote well-being, reduce risk of disease and help manage disease. This is of particular concern among racial and ethnic minority populations, lower income populations, and rural and remote populations who may already be at risk for health disparities.

According to the USDA Actions on Nutrition Security, there is a strong association between food insecurity and poor nutrition. Those who report being most food insecure are also at a higher risk of developing diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.

“Being well-nourished matters whether you are 2 or 82 and should be a non-issue in a country known as the breadbasket of the world,” said Clancy Harrison, MS, RDN, founder of Food Dignity and an ambassador to National Dairy Council. “In fact, many young children don’t have access to nutrient-rich foods like dairy foods needed to support their growth and brain development.”

Harrison points out adults also struggle with food and nutrition insecurity, impacting their health outcomes. “For adults, nutrition can significantly impact management of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease,” added Harrison. “Proper nutrition also helps maintain muscle and bone to help people thrive into their golden years.”

One key strategy to address nutrition insecurity

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to ending food and nutrition insecurity in the U.S. However, there is one food group that may help close the gap.

Dairy foods are a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, providing unique benefits that can help improve nutrition security and reduce risk of chronic disease like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. According to National Dairy Council, milk, including lactose-free milk, provides 13 essential nutrients: protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, iodine and vitamins A, D, B2, B3, B5 and B12.

Of note, dairy foods are a key source of three of the four nutrients of public health concern — calcium, potassium and vitamin D. These nutrients are crucial for overall health, especially for vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant people and older adults.

Even those who are lactose intolerant can benefit nutritionally from culturally relevant options like lactose-free dairy milk. And there are other dairy foods with lower lactose. For example, natural cheeses contain minimal lactose and Greek- and Icelandic-style yogurts have less lactose plus live and active cultures that help break down lactose, making it easier to digest.

Given their nutritional profile, dairy foods offer tremendous value to food assistance programs like WIC, the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs, SNAP and food banks nationwide when it comes to helping bridge nutritional gaps. Plus dairy foods pair well with other under-consumed food groups like vegetables and whole grains.

Another benefit is that the dairy food group offers many affordable options. One serving of dairy milk costs about 22 cents. Dairy foods offer an economical source of nutrition, making them an ideal candidate to help address health equity and improve food and nutrition insecurity.

Ensuring dairy can meet food and nutrition security needs for all

Despite the potential of dairy foods to help address hunger and nutrition, milk remains one of the most requested and least donated foods at food banks. That’s why the dairy community has long partnered with Feeding America, the nation’s largest network of food banks providing food to Americans in emergency need and on an ongoing basis. Increasing access to milk, lactose-free dairy milk and other dairy foods can make a difference to millions of people who rely on hunger systems to nourish their families.

There are many ways you can help ensure your neighbors are nourished. Simply raising awareness of food and nutrition insecurity is a start. You can also volunteer your time and/or donate to your local food bank or pantry to help nourish those in need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, visit Nutrition.gov/Topics/Food-Security-And-Access to learn about food assistance programs available to you. For more on National Dairy Council, visit usdairy.com/nationaldairycouncil.

2023-12-04T08:01:01

(BPT) – The holidays can be a happy yet hectic time. Between planning, cooking and hosting celebrations, your focus often shifts to the joy of others. As you check your list twice to make sure everyone else is having a merry holiday, don’t forget yourself. Prioritizing self-care is essential this time of year.

To make sure you can enjoy the festive season as much as possible, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers some tips to deck the halls with self-care this holiday.

1. Manage stress

As stress levels rise, your enjoyment of the holidays often goes down. It’s important to regularly exercise or meditate to manage stress. Find time daily, even if it’s just 5 or 10 minutes between to-dos, to practice mindful activities such as yoga, journaling or even putting together a puzzle.

2. Rest well

With so much on your list, you may find yourself sleeping less. However, to feel and be your best around family and friends, you must get good sleep. Plan and adhere to earlier bedtimes and remember to reduce screen time and social media use to aid in relaxation. Reading a book instead of scrolling on your phone can help to wind down before bed.

3. Practice gratitude

Make a list of things you’re grateful for this year. Review and add to it as you feel overwhelmed. You may even consider volunteering with your loved ones to help foster joy in the true spirit of the holiday season.

4. Start new traditions

Embrace new traditions like participating in a weekly game night, visiting the local drive-in theater or baking holiday treats together with wholesome ingredients like Eggland’s Best eggs. These eggs contain superior nutrition such as six times more Vitamin D and 25% less saturated fat to boost heart health and your body’s immunity, both of which are important for overall wellness during the holiday season.

Check out these Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes from Eggland’s Best. They are baked in a muffin pan and have festive flavor, with a double dose of ginger thanks to a ginger snap crust, plus a delicious cream cheese filling with seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Try it out with friends and family this season — it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering!

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yields: 6 mini cheesecakes

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 12-15 gingersnaps
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 1 Eggland’s Best Large Egg
• 1 Eggland’s Best Large Egg Yolk
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• pinch of salt

Topping ideas: whipped cream, caramel, nuts, melted chocolate, toffee sauce, etc.

Directions:

1. Line your muffin/cupcake pan with 6 liners and preheat oven to 350 F.

2. Add the ginger snaps to a food processor fitted with metal blade, add butter and granulated sugar. Crush them to a fine powder.

3. Put a heaping tablespoon in each liner and press down using back of a cup or spoon. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, add all the ingredients under the filling (except topping) and using a hand mixer, beat until smooth and fluffy. Add about 1/3 cup on top of the crust. Once filled, tap the pan a few times to get rid of any air bubbles.

5. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until set; a little jiggly in the center is fine.

6. Once baked, switch off the stove, open the door and let the cakes cool for 10 minutes. Then, pull it out of the oven and transfer using a spatula to lift and place on a rack to cool down completely.

7. Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving. Add whipped cream and toppings if desired.

2023-12-04T11:01:00

(BPT) – ‘Tis the season for ugly sweater parties, merry mocktail gatherings and holiday cookie exchanges. While many enjoy playing hostess with the mostest, holiday entertaining can come with some stressors. In fact, a recent survey found that 55% of adults in the U.S. say it’s important to them that their guests have a favorable opinion of their home.* Whether hosting a big family gathering or inviting friends over for a festive celebration, a little home prep work can go a long way in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. To help you get ready for the holiday season, here are five ways to make your home cozy, inviting and ready to impress.

Deep clean and declutter before decking the halls

With the holidays close at hand, you may be getting ready to adorn your home with traditional holiday décor. But, before you drape the tinsel, give your home a thorough clean and declutter. Start by dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, mopping floors, polishing woodwork and cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen. You’ll also want to take time to put away or get rid of items that are creating unnecessary clutter, as a tidy space will make your home feel more spacious and comfortable. In fact, the holidays are a great time to give things you no longer want to those in need. A clean and clutter-free home will make your guests feel more comfortable while also keeping the spotlight on your home’s beauty and holiday cheer.

Seal around windows and doors

One of the best parts about this time of year is cuddling up and getting cozy with family and friends. The first step in making your home warm and inviting for your holiday guests is to seal around your windows and doors. Moisture and cold air can seep through the small openings and cracks of doors and windows, causing your home to feel drafty and chilly. Stay warm by replacing old caulk with a sealant like DAP’s AMP All Weather Window, Siding and Door Sealant. It delivers a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal for your windows and doors, while offering durability, mold and mildew resistance, wet surface application, paintability and crystal-clear clarity. It also has a 30-minute paint and rain/water ready time, giving you more time to prepare for your guests.

Replace old, unsightly caulk

Throughout the year, your kitchen and bathrooms are exposed to high levels of water and moisture. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, and buildup of dirt and stains on the caulk which can be eyesores. Make these areas guest-ready by removing the old caulk, thoroughly cleaning the area to remove any dirt or residue, and then re-caulking with DAP’s AMP Kitchen, Bath & Plumbing Sealant. Not only does it provide a 100% waterproof seal, but it’s also specifically formulated to prevent mold and mildew growth with a lifetime guarantee and is available in white and crystal clear.

Repair imperfections and paint on walls

Walls can accumulate wear and tear over time, especially in high-traffic areas of your home. To ensure your space looks its best for holiday guests, take time to repair any imperfections by filling holes and cracks with a high-quality spackling, such as DAP’s DryDex^® Dry Time Indicator Spackling, that provides a smooth finished surface in a shortened amount of time. The unique dry time color indicator also verifies when the patched surface is dry and ready to be sanded and painted. Once the surface is sanded down, apply a fresh coat of paint in key areas, like the living room, bathroom and guest bedroom, to help the entire home feel clean and fresh. Or, if you’re looking to impress, painting a room is an easy and inexpensive way to dramatically change the whole look of a space.

Create a welcoming entryway

Your front entrance sets the tone for your guests’ experience. Add a festive wreath, some seasonal plants or a doormat to create an inviting entrance. Make sure the area is well-lit to help guests feel welcome. If your entryway tends to get cluttered with coats, shoes and bags, consider adding storage solutions like a coat rack, shoe bench, festive baskets or wall hooks. Providing a designated space for your guests to store their belongings will make them feel more comfortable and allow you to relax as well.

These quick and easy preparations will help you and your guests feel more at home, setting the stage for all to enjoy the festivities and fun of the season. Learn more about how DAP products can get your home guest-ready for the holidays at www.dap.com.

*According to a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults commissioned by Article and conducted by OnePoll.

2023-12-04T08:01:01

(BPT) – Get ready for a tasty touchdown! Passionate home tailgaters (homegaters) are getting their space ready to host friends and family for football season. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a new homegater, you know that you’ll need fuel to cheer on your team. This season, try pairing foods with a fan-favorite condiment: Ranch.

Ranch dressing goes with just about anything and can elevate the flavor of other foods. Litehouse Homestyle Ranch, America’s #1 refrigerated dressing brand*, wants to help you score big this football tailgating season. Dive into the homegating playbook and try five ranch and party-approved food pairings that will have your fellow fans cheering for more.

1. Chicken wings

Chicken wings are a classic choice for any tailgate. Whether you like bone-in or boneless, barbecue or buffalo, it’s a real party food MVP. Pair these crispy delights with a side of ranch, and enjoy the contrast of the wing’s savory taste and ranch’s creamy texture. They’re also packed with protein to fuel you all day long as you watch the big game.

2. Pizza

A cheesy, warm slice of pizza just begs to be dipped in ranch. Offer a selection of classic pepperoni, garden veggie, barbecue chicken and four cheese so everyone can enjoy a couple (or several!) slices they can dunk in or drizzle with ranch. It’s the ultimate pizza party homegate experience.

3. Burgers

Take your burger game to the next level with a generous squeeze of ranch. Grill each patty to your desired doneness, top with all the fixings and drizzle ranch on the buns for a sensational taste. Cool, tangy ranch complements the savory beef you and your guests can enjoy while watching your team score a touchdown.

4. Veggies

Veggies and ranch are a popular football finger food. It adds a touch of crunch to your game day spread and is the perfect party appetizer or side your guests will appreciate. Choose crisp carrots, celery and bell peppers to dip into a zesty ranch. It’s a great contrast to the other homegate dishes you may serve this weekend.

5. Nachos

Bring a stadium staple home by making a platter of nachos. Nachos are a superior party snack because you can quickly cook up a huge plate for your guests so you can sit down and cheer on your team, too. Layer tortilla chips, melted cheese, jalapenos, salsa and a thick drizzle of ranch to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. It’s a winning combination your guests will demolish in minutes.

Whether you’re a fan of wings, pizza, burgers, veggies, or party nachos, adding a dollop or drizzle of ranch to the mix can take your homegate festivities from good to great.

Enhance your football gatherings even more by entering the Litehouse in the House Ranch Cave sweepstakes. One ranch-loving grand prize winner will win their very own Ranch Cave with football cave essentials. One first-prize winner will receive a year’s worth of Litehouse ranch dressing and 50 second-prize winners will receive Litehouse Ranch-shaped pillows, the perfect addition to any tailgate hang. To learn more, visit LitehouseFoods.com.

And don’t forget to also enter the “Take it to the House” experience. Every Sunday, Litehouse will celebrate the first time a player “takes it to the house.” Starting in November, the first time there is an interception, kick-off or punt return for a touchdown, Litehouse will give away free bottles of Litehouse ranch dressing! Follow @lifehousefoods on Instagram for more information.

* Source: 1Circana US MULO Latest 52 Weeks Ending 11/5/23