The FDA wants to limit the amount of lead in baby food.
Wait, what?
Yes. The FDA has been trying to limit the amount of toxic metals in baby food for years. One study found that 94% of store-bought baby food contained lead, while 32% contained mercury. Lead exposure in kids has been linked to brain damage, learning disabilities, and behavioral difficulties. The good news: since the '80s, lead exposure through food has decreased by 97% among young kids. Now, the FDA wants to get it "Closer to Zero."
How?
Yesterday, it shared new federal guidance that could reduce lead in some baby foods by as much as 27%. Before you throw everything out, it's important to note that metals and toxins are found in just about all foods. That's because fruits and veggies absorb small amounts of lead and other metals from the soil, water, and even air — naturally and through pollution. If you're thinking about making your own baby food with store-bought or organic items, note that they may contain just as many toxins. One tip experts have to limit exposure is to cut back on root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes since they've been shown to contain more toxic levels than others. And replacing rice puffs or rice cakes with things like oatmeal.
When will the recs be official?
Right now, the FDA still has their guidelines in 'draft' mode. It can't finalize anything until after a 60-day period for public comment. Then, it will sign off on the changes. After that, the FDA will have the power to take action against companies that exceed the new lead limits. But critics believe the guidelines don't go far enough. And it's worth noting that the FDA doesn't address other metals like cadmium, which has also been detected in baby food.
theSkimm
The FDA's proposed guidelines are putting a spotlight on the standards that exist — or lack thereof — on food. And while it's unlikely that people can eliminate all traces of lead, there are steps parents can take to limit their children's exposure.
Former VP Mike Pence. Yesterday, CNN first reported that Pence's lawyer located about a dozen classified docs at the former Veep's Indiana home last week. For months, Pence — a potential 2024 presidential candidate — repeatedly said he didn't have any classified docs in his possession. But after former President Trump and President Biden got in hot water, Pence asked for his home to be searched "out of an abundance of caution." Now, the FBI's got the docs. It's not clear what's in them, but in a letter to the National Archives, Pence's lawyer said they "could potentially contain sensitive or classified information." Unlike Biden and Trump, Pence faces no investigation as of now. In the meantime, maybe more former presidents want to consider some pre-spring cleaning.
What's in the hot seat…
Google. Yesterday, the Justice Dept sued the tech giant over antitrust issues…again. In 2020, the Trump admin sued Google over its alleged monopoly as a search engine. Now, a new lawsuit claims that Google has a holdon the advertising world by controlling the platforms where the ads are published and the tools used to create those ads. The gov along with eight other states wants Google to break up its estimated $150 billion ad business. But Google says the lawsuit is ignoring the enormous competition in the industry. And that they are "one of hundreds of companies" that put ads on the internet.
…Oh and speaking of scrutiny, senators held a hearing focused on Ticketmaster's handling of Taylor Swift ticket sales. The company promised to "do better." But Senators said they know that move "all too well."
What's making our movie watchlist longer…
2023 Oscar noms. Yesterday, the Academy announced that "Everything Everywhere All at Once" earned 11 noms. The film's star Michelle Yeoh became the first Asian actress to be nominated for best actress since 1935. And this year broke a record for the most Asian actors nominated. But not a single woman earned a nod for their director skills. And Black filmmakers were also left out of the top categories, including best picture. The curtain for the Oscars rises on Sunday, March 12 at 8pm ET.
What could give millions an excuse to play hooky from work...
This is the last week of our Put Yourself First Challenge. Missed one? There's still time to check out all the challenges here.
Whether you're growing in your current job or searching for a new one, it can be hard to ask for what you want (read: deserve).
So this week, together with Glassdoor, we tapped author and career expert Selena Rezvani to get her pro tips for getting what you want out of work. Whatever that means to you. Challenge accepted.
Long walks. Meditation. A third cup of coffee. It can take a lot to tap into your creativity (trust us). But did you know that adding a little extra purple to your wardrobe or decor can help you spark new ideas? According to color theorists, purple is associated with fantasy, mystery, and originality because it's rarely found in nature and difficult to reproduce.
Curious about the rest of the rainbow? Then you'll wanna peep our latest vid starring internet-famous fashionista, Color Me Courtney. Together with our friends at Pfizer, we break down how you can use color theory to boost your mood and prioritize your mental health. Check it out.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Nutritionist-backed meals that'll keep your taste buds on their toes. This expertly curated cleanse offers organic, plant-based dishes that boost energy, improve digestion, and fight brain fog. Plus yummy smoothies and daily guidance. PS: Skimm'rs get 15% off.*
2. Ultra-comfy leggings you'll wanna wear 24/7/365. Seriously. These Athleta leggings have all-around stretch and they're made with their lightest-feel yoga fabric, making them your new go-to when you're on-the-go. Did we mention the easy-access side stash pockets? Ready, set, go go go.*
3. Jewelry that's perfect for Valentine's Day. Who among us doesn't love to be surprised with something that's sparkly and shiny? Snag a piece and wow that special someone in your life.
4. Galentine's gift ideas for your BFFs. We rounded up some cute gifts that'll show your crew just how much you love them. Including options you'll wanna scoop up to treat yourself too.
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
On Our Radar
Buy two, get one free on select items at Chewy. The fur baby in your life deserves a new toy, pack of treats, and more. No ruff life here.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Saddle up…Ronnie B (TX). After a decade of coaching, he opened The Stable — a premier boys and girls lacrosse training facility that helps young athletes set up for success.
(Some) Birthdays…Shelby Alpert-Waldman (CA), Leslie Saewitz (DC), Alexandra Penkava (NY), Julie Adelman (OR), Kristen Gray (PA), Taryn McLaughlin (GA), Carrie Coffee (NY), Bea Dizon (NY), Suzan Sherburn (TX), Jennifer Kay Ryder (TN), Wendy Walker (TX), Cindy Adams (CA), Kirsten Walley (MA), Kristen Kalkin (CA), Elle Tinnirella (NY)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
If your fears include the interview question 'what are your weaknesses?' don't fret. We spoke to career coach and CEO of Resume Addict Charnay Horton for her tips on how to nail your answer. Plus, the only response you shouldn't use. (Yep, there's only one wrong choice.) Read more and ace that interview.
Skimm'd by: Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Maria del Carmen Corpus, Kate Gilhool, and Mariza Smajlaj
It is. Yesterday, the world watched as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took their oaths of office, promising to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution." With that, Biden is the oldest president in US history. And Harris is the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American to take on the second-highest office in the land. It all happened against a backdrop of masks, social distancing, and no crowds to limit the spread of COVID-19. And as tens of thousands of troops stood ready for any potential threats on the Capitol. Despite it all, Biden and Harris marked the beginning of a new era.
She was the country's first National Youth Poet Laureate in 2017. And yesterday, at age 22, she became the youngest poet to recite at a presidential inauguration. Gorman finished "The Hill We Climb" the night after the Capitol riots. And she knew she an important message to share: "to put our future first, we must first put our differences aside."
theSkimm
Yesterday marked the end of a long and winding road for Biden. And the beginning of a new one that's got a number of bumps ahead. But if history has shown anything, it's that America does and can move forward.
Down to Business
It didn't take long for President Biden to get to work. He signed at least 17 executive directives on things like COVID-19, the economy, climate change, and racial inequality. Here's what was on 46's first to-do list:
COVID-19…He placed a mask mandate requiring people to wear them on federal grounds. And plans to encourage Americans to meet his 100-day mask challenge to mask up for (you guessed it) 100 days. Biden also halted the US's departure from the World Health Organization, which was supposed to go into effect July 6. Dr Anthony Fauci will now lead a US delegation at today's executive board meeting.
Climate change...Biden rejoined the Paris climate deal. He also withdrew the permit allowing the construction and use of the Keystone XL pipeline. And reinstated an Obama-era rule that doesn't allow oil and gas drilling in Arctic waters and the Bering Sea.
Equality...He rescinded Trump's controversial 1776 Commission intended to go against the 1619 Project. And ordered each federal agency to do an equity assessment and report within 200 days to address obstacles in place that hold back underserved communities.
Immigration...Biden ordered his Homeland Security Secretary (pending confirmation) to protect the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) with help from the attorney general. He took steps toward stopping the construction of former President Trump's border wall. And ended the travel ban on Muslim-majority countries.
On other issues...He ordered changes to the Census – think: including unauthorized immigrants in the count. And like some past presidents, Biden also ordered all of those appointed to his admin to sign an ethics pledge.
Meanwhile, on the VP's agenda, Kamala Harris swore in Senators Jon Ossoff (D) and Raphael Warnock (D), who won the runoff elections in Georgia earlier this month. She also made her replacement official by swearing in Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA). And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) got an upgraded title as the Dems officially took control of the Senate.
And Also...This
What has made an unwelcome circle around the sun…
COVID-19. This week marks a year since the US discovered its first coronavirus case in Washington. Cases still continue to rise. Earlier this week, the US reached a grim milestone surpassing over 400,000 deaths – about the number of US soldiers killed in World War II. Vaccine distribution has been slow, and in New York City, vaccines could run out by the end of the week.The news came amid another grim milestone: yesterday the US reported a record 4,409 deaths in a single day.
Who's all about payback…
China. Yesterday, the country sanctioned former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and over two dozen other former Trump admin officials. This comes a day after the admin publicly accused Beijing of committing genocide against its Uighur Muslim population. The country has detained hundreds of thousands of Uighur Muslims and other ethnic minorities, placing them in forced labor camps. China has denied human rights abuses and says the camps reduce the threat of extremism and terrorism. Now, it's sanctioning individuals it accuses of having "violated China's sovereignty," blaming them for being "mainly responsible" for US-China tensions. It's banning them from entering the mainland and Hong Kong. And restricting people in China from doing business with anyone tied to those sanctioned.
What hasn't been getting the royal treatment…
Monarch butterflies. Earlier this week, researchers counted fewer than 2,000 monarchs along the California coast – a record low. The culprits: climate change, pesticides, and...humans. An increase in housing has also reportedly destroyed their habitats. And scientists fear this suggests that the western monarch population is close to being extinct.
Today's challenge: Pay yourself first. Because if you're not first, you're last. Ask your employer to deposit part of your paycheck into your savings account every pay period. Or set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to your savings account on payday. That way, you'll never think of the cash as yours to spend. And saving won't feel like a sacrifice. You just put your savings on autopilot. So fly.
For more ways to automate your money moves and cut down on stress, check out our guide. And see past challenges here.
For when you catch yourself slipping on your 2021 goals...
Take it back now y'all. This wellness program can help you set reasonable goals, and get in the mindset to actually reach them. Without forcing you to follow strict rules. PS: Skimm'rs get a free 14-day trial. You got this.*
For when grocery trips keep falling to the bottom of your to-do list…
Order in. This online marketplace ships to your door for as little as $5 a month when you get an annual membership. But you can go month-to-month, too. PS: Skimm'rs get 25% off their first order – and a free gift. Get it done.*
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Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
New beginnings...Addie C (NE). She was accepted to her dream graduate program and will be moving to Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Stitching it...Jasmine H (MI). She launched a sewing business that specializes in handmade sentimental & memorial keepsakes. Sew in love.
(Some) Birthdays...Gordon Crawford (CA), CC Bernstein (NY), Matt Buckwald (LA), Kathleen McCarthy (NY), Jennifer Cheng (DC), Katie Bean (VA), Sue Geramian (NY), Marissa Ravin (PA), Christina Rhee (CA), Calena Ohlson (NE), Emily Kraemer (MA), Bryn Jeffers (NJ), Lisa Roane (IN), Judith Ehrmantraut (NJ), Sue Geramian (NY)
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm Share
Skimm HQ was excited to experience history being made. Share theSkimm with your friends who are all about having a female VP.
