U.S. childhood obesity has tripled since 1980, with 9.5% of infants and toddlers and 16.9% of children ages 2 to 19 considered obese (Ogden, Carroll, Curtin, Lamb, & Flegal, 2010). Research shows that early childhood is the ideal time to establish a taste for healthy foods and a desire to try new things in order to encourage life-long, healthy habits. Research also clearly shows that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect against several chronic diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. With childhood obesity a growing national issue, the 4-H, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Horticulture Agents conducted a 4-month farm to school taste testing program. The goal of the program was to offer students small samples of locally grown foods. A tasting station was set up in the cafeteria during school lunch hours where students would taste a featured vegetable. This program was built upon the concept that personal connections with food and where food comes from increases consumption. An increase in fruit and vegetable consumption for youth aids in an overall healthier adulthood.  

A taste test: 

• Provides students the opportunity to try a variety of foods, introducing them to foods that are locally grown and in season. 

• Facilitates a change in food choices, thus allowing new and local foods that are accepted by students to be integrated into school meals. 

• Involves students and staff in changing school food. 

• Creates positive food environments. 

• Is a fun and memorable experience.