Dear Heloise: Cashews are in the Anacardiaceae family, as are mangoes, poison ivy, poison oak, etc. I keep track of this because I am slightly allergic to mangoes.
— Polly Hale, Bakersfield
Polly, I did some digging and found some interesting facts. Cashews, which originate from South America, are not legumes as I was always taught in school. According to the Britannica, despite having a few common characteristics, legumes do not grow on trees, but cashews do.
Like you, I, too, am allergic to poison ivy and mangoes.
— Heloise
MOLD ON MUENSTER
Dear Heloise: I am asking for help from you and your readers. I like Muenster cheese and buy it frequently along with pepper jack cheese. After opening the bag it comes in and using a couple of slices, I close the bag and squeeze out as much air as possible. But every time I open the bag a couple of days later, there’s mold forming on the cheese. This does not happen with the pepper jack.
I thought it might be due to the paper between the slices, but I’m not entirely sure. I’ve tried keeping the cheese in different containers, to no avail. Do you or any of your readers have a suggestion, or am I doomed to scrapping the mold off?
— Stan L., via email
Stan, try this:
Avoid plastic wrap. It will trap moisture. Instead, use cheese wrap or parchment paper.
Don’t overwrap the cheese with too many layers of wrapping. Wrap it loosely to allow it to breathe.
Store in your crisper drawer where it’s cool and dry.
Wash your hands before and after touching Muenster to lower the risk of bacteria.
— Heloise
PROTECTING SHELVES
Dear Heloise: I set coasters beneath bottles of salad oil and jars of honey to protect my kitchen cupboard shelves. I also put a coaster under a vase with flowers if the vase isn’t too large.
— Kerry M., via email
BRUSHING YOUR TEETH
Dear Heloise: I work in a dental office, and I see so many people who have damaged their teeth and gums with improper brushing. Here are some tips on how to properly brush:
First, get rid of your handheld manual toothbrush. Invest in an electric toothbrush if you can. It really does a better job of cleaning if it’s done correctly.
Brush in circles in your mouth very gently. There is no need to be aggressive with your toothbrush; just take your time and do a good job of it, especially at night.
Be sure you brush your teeth once in the morning and in the evening before bed. Floss, rinse and smile!
— Carol P., Seattle
Carol, with dental care available to all, it’s important for us to take care of our teeth. People who do not practice good oral hygiene are at risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Overall, it can have a negative affect on your health and quality of life if you skip daily brushing and flossing.
— Heloise
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