Meet Nicole! Our New Nutrition Major Intern
4 Minute Read
Published on Oct 28, 2024
We’re thrilled to introduce you to Nicole Engle, the newest member of the 99 Counties team! Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for nutrition, sustainable food systems, and regenerative agriculture. Let’s dive into her journey, her love for regenerative farming, and what excites her most about working with 99 Counties.
A Warm Introduction
“My name is Nicole Engle,” Nicole shares. “I was born and raised in Austin, Texas, but I now call Corvallis, Oregon, home while I complete my undergraduate degree in Nutrition at Oregon State University.” After experiencing life in both places, she’s grown fond of the warm Austin sunshine but appreciates Oregon’s distinct seasons and lack of humidity.
A Passion Rooted in Personal Experience
Nicole’s passion for nutrition stems from her personal health challenges. “I grew up with stomach aches after every meal and finally had the chance during COVID lockdown to experiment with elimination diets,” she explains. Through trial and error, she discovered a sensitivity to eggs and lactose, which led her to explore different dietary paths. “I even tried going vegetarian and pescatarian for a while,” she adds. However, her exposure to regenerative agriculture sparked her curiosity and shaped her understanding of sustainable farming practices.
Why Regenerative Agriculture Matters
Through her studies, Nicole realized how connected human health is to the way animals are raised and how this affects the environment. “Regenerative agriculture benefits both the planet and people,” she explains. “Healthy farmland produces healthier animals, and in turn, healthier meat for us to enjoy without sacrificing environmental sustainability.” She believes this practice is revolutionary, offering a way for people to include meat in their diet without compromising the health of the planet.
Embracing Regenerative Meats
Nicole has experienced the benefits of incorporating regenerative meats firsthand. “Even though I only eat meat once or twice a week, I feel more energetic and balanced. It’s also comforting to know where my food comes from and that it doesn’t contribute to the climate crisis.” Nicole balances her meals with a variety of nutrient-dense plants, enjoying the richness of flavors that come from thoughtful meal preparation with regenerative meats.
Exciting Opportunities with 99 Counties
Nicole’s enthusiasm for her internship is contagious. “I love trying new foods, sharing them with friends and family, and learning every step of the way!” She sees her role at 99 Counties as a perfect blend of her nutrition studies and her desire to make a meaningful impact. “It feels good to be part of something that works towards a healthier planet.”
Educating Consumers About Sustainable Choices
A self-proclaimed advocate for food education, Nicole highlights how important it is for consumers to understand food labels. “It shocked me to learn that ‘free-range’ can mean chickens simply caught a breeze through an open window.” She believes in empowering consumers to make informed choices. “Supporting companies like 99 Counties or buying from local farmers markets makes a real difference,” she says. “It’s about finding the right partners and making better choices for both ourselves and the planet.”
Nicole’s Favorite Go-To Meals
As a busy college student, Nicole relies on meal prepping to maintain a healthy diet. “Taco meat and spaghetti sauce made with 99 Counties’ regenerative ground meat have become staples in my routine,” she shares. She often incorporates fresh vegetables from her local farmer’s market, creating meals that are nutritious and delicious for days.
Dispelling Myths About Sustainable Agriculture
Nicole addresses a common misconception: sustainable agriculture is too expensive or unfeasible for meat production. “It’s not true!” she exclaims. “With just a little research, anyone can find local farmers markets, even in big cities. And companies like 99 Counties prove that sustainable, healthy meat is possible with the right partnerships.”
Goals for the Internship
During her time with 99 Counties, Nicole hopes to develop accessible resources like recipes and educational pieces that encourage customers to try new foods and make informed choices. “Education is powerful, and it’s even more impactful when shared among friends and family,” she explains. Her vision is to create a ripple effect of climate-conscious eating that benefits both individual health and the environment.
A Bright Future with 99 Counties
Nicole’s enthusiasm, insight, and passion for nutrition and regenerative agriculture are truly inspiring. We are excited to see her grow during her time with us and contribute to our mission of building a healthier, more sustainable future.
Please join us in welcoming Nicole to the 99 Counties family—we know she’s going to make a big impact!