According to the CDC and data collected from the 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, only 9% of adults consumed the recommended amount of vegetables, and only 12% consumed the recommended amount of fruit. Because of barriers such as high cost, lack of availability and access, and perceived lack of ability to prepare and cook, many are going without the essential nutrients they need. 

In order to promote healthy habits and increase knowledge of affordable, nutritious recipes, Lunch and Learn was started this calendar year at the Garrard County Extension Office.  This free monthly cooking class utilizes the University of Kentucky Food and Nutrition Calendar to showcase recipes that are low in sodium, added sugars and saturated fats. Lunch and Learn has been extremely popular in the community, averaging about 25-35 people in total each month. There is a day and night session to accommodate various schedules. A survey taken mid-year at the program showed these results: 81% of participants reported that they have already made one or more of the recipes at home. 100% of participants reported an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption since starting Lunch and Learn. 95% of participants reported that Lunch and Learn had prompted them to start looking at the nutrition facts label more often. Finally, 100% of participants reported that they were inspired to try new foods since coming to Lunch and Learn. Lunch and Learn continues to be one of the most successful and long-lasting FCS programs in Garrard County!