This food holiday recognizes the health benefits of a dark, leafy green vegetable in “goosefoot” family that includes Swiss chard and quinoa, as well as beets.

Spinach originated in Persia and was introduced to India and China as the "Persian Green."

It was popularized in Europe by 16th-century Florentine noblewoman, Catherine de’ Medici, who loved the vegetable and made sure her cooks served it at every meal.

More recently, spinach was promoted in 20th century USA media by the animated sailor, Popeye, who derived superhuman strength from eating the nutrient-rich green.

Observed globally, this food holiday encourages people to incorporate spinach into their meals like Popeye and Catherine de’ Medici, and to explore various spinach dishes.