Success StoryTeen Cuisine



Teen Cuisine

Author: Teresa King

Planning Unit: Meade County CES

Major Program: Nutrition and Food Systems General

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Kentucky’s youth are fighting an uphill battle to lower their obesity rate. According to the 2019/2020 data from Stateofobesity.org, the obesity rate among youth ages 10 – 17 in Kentucky has increased from 19.6% to 23.8% in four years.

To educate youth on nutrition and the importance of physical activity the Meade County Cooperative Extension EFNEP (Expanded Food Nutrition Education Program) assistant conducted a four-week Teen Cuisine Program. The EFNEP assistant partnered with Stuart Pepper Middle School to offer this afterschool program. Each session included physical activity tips, along with nutrition and food prep lessons. They were then split into groups to make a recipe that included fruits or vegetables. By involving the students in the making of each recipe, they were more apt to try unfamiliar foods.

At the conclusion of the program the evaluation data showed, 92% increased their physical activity. Over 60% improved their daily vegetable intake. Nearly 85% of the students increased their confidence in reading a recipe and measuring skills. 






Stories by Teresa King


Food Insecurity

about 2 years ago by Teresa King

According to FeedingAmerica.org, within Meade County there are over 3,600 food insecure people. Food... Read More


Nutrition and Incarceration

about 2 years ago by Teresa King

Breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and poor health is a challenge, especially when incarcerated. ... Read More


Stories by Meade County CES


Never too Young to Start Saving

Never too Young to Start Saving

about 2 years ago by Jennifer Bridge

Learning to save money and resources early in life can lead to proactive habits for the future. Each... Read More


Kentucky 4-H Summit

Kentucky 4-H Summit

about 2 years ago by Deana Reed

According to research, middle school is a time where young people find their place in this world, th... Read More