Tiffani Thiessen shares how Hormel Pepperoni is part of her PTO, interview

Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni
Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni / Hormel/Credit Rebecca Sanabria
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The idea of PTO is taking a different approach thanks to Hormel Pepperoni. With some help from Tiffani Thiessen, everyone is encouraged to enjoy some Pepperoni Time Off on National Pepperoni Pizza Day and beyond.

In today’s hectic, busy world the idea of time off is a luxury that may not be a priority. Even though people dream of that epic getaway or even a quick stayaction, the reality is that the phone is glued to the hand and the out of office is rarely turned on.

Recently, Tiffani Thiessen partnered with Hormel Pepperoni to encourage people to make PTO, pepperoni time off, a priority. Whether those moments are substantial or even just little blips in the week, that time to step back and recharge is vital.

Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni
Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni / Hormel Pepperoni/Credit Rebecca Sanabria

As part of the promotion, FoodSided was able to speak with Tiffani Thiessen. During the conversation, she shared her family’s love of pizza night, why she feels it is important to take time away, and if a reboot of White Collar is in the cards.

When asked about why this concept of Pepperoni Time Off resonated with her, Thiessen commented that people are busy, working a lot, and otherwise tied to a full schedule. That idea of taking some time away, even just for a pizza night, can be the moment to reset.

As a fan of Hormel Pepperoni, she mentioned that her PTO might be a simple night at home. She said, “I’m going to turn my phone off, grab a book, a Hormel Pepperoni pizza, bottle of wine and put on some stretchy pants. It is fun to just take a day off.”

Thiessen appreciates that even just the dinner table, itself, can be that moment to unplug and reconnect. She explained, “I grew up where family dinners were needed and desired. It was important in my family that we sat down together. I always said that food connects people. Spending that time to sit down with family, or even yourself, is important.”

“My husband and I are big fans of unplugging. Nowadays, we are so overly connected to our electronics that it can be good to go out into the world we live in. Put your feet in the grass, connect with actual people, see where the food comes from. Those moments are important for our brains and bodies.”

Since the table can be a place where connections are formed, pepperoni is often a popular choice. For Thiessen, she mentioned that she has always be a fan of pepperoni pizza. Today, it is a favorite with her whole family.

Whether the pizza is covered edge to edge with Hormel pepperoni, layered with cheese, or a combination of the two, people can create whatever version they please. Sometimes having a little fun with food is vital to the whole experience.

And, if there is a little extra pepperoni left over, do not fret. Thiessen has plenty of suggestions about ensuring that no food is ever wasted. As seen in her cookbook, she uses pepperoni on bagel bites. Or, cooks can use the new Hormel Confetti style pepperoni, too. That food is great on pizzas, salads, and many other recipes.

Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni
Tiffani Thiessen for Hormel Pepperoni / Hormel/Credit Rebecca Sanabria

Speaking of her cookbook, Thiessen shared the two reasons why it was important for her to discuss food waste and making conscious food decisions. Her simple, approachable method is doable for any family.

The first reason for the cookbook stemmed from an immediate reaction. Thiessen said, “I had this idea right at the start of COVID when we were literally like kind of stretching our food because we were all kind of afraid to go to the grocery store. It made me kind of think, this is kind of how I grew up. Not because we were afraid to go to the grocery store because of global pandemic, but because my parents didn't have a lot of money. The cost of food right now it is bonkers. It is important to stretch the food that you have already in your fridge.”

Second, the concept focused on food waste. She said, “what I'm always trying to instill in my children is the importance of food waste and how really it's one of the biggest contributors to our climate change right now, the amount of food that we waste.”

While Thiessen and her family grow her own food and enjoy that benefits of their labor, anyone can make small changes and see an impact. Whether it is ensure all pepperoni is used or being thoughtful with that grocery shop, all items are elements that have lasting effects.

And, what might be a good idea for a future Pepperoni Time Off activity, an episode of White Collar? When asked about the possibility of the show coming back. Thiessen is hopeful.

“There is a possibility but there is no certain aspect of it yet. Us as a cast are very open to it. We've all said that we would be a part of it and it's moving in that direction. But as you know, in this Hollywood business, everything takes forever. But, it definitely is moving in a fun direction that we hope will actually happen.”

For now, schedule in some PTO on National Pepperoni Pizza Day or any day of the week. Hormel encourages everyone to share their thoughts at . Those moments to unplug, recharge and enjoy some great food is always a flavorful choice.