The problem

The Lee County Extension Office's Ag and FCS agents were seeking new ways to encourage healthy eating habits and increase vegetable consumption in the Lee County community.

The educational program response

The Lee County office staff grew 13 different varieties of carrots in their raised bed gardens. These varieties were then featured in a taste testing event during the office’s monthly Diabetes Support Group meeting.

The participants/target audience

The participants were members of the office’s monthly Diabetes Support Group.

Other partners (if applicable)

Lee County Extension FCS and Ag Agents 

Diabetes Support Group

Program impact or participant response

The 12 participants had the opportunity to taste all 13 carrot varieties and enjoyed a variety of carrot-based treats, including samples of each carrot, Carrot Whoopie Pies, Morning Carrot Muffins, and two different carrot smoothies. All of the participants tried the recipes and samples provided. This collaborative effort highlighted the innovative thinking of the staff and demonstrated the versatility of carrots in various culinary creations, ultimately promoting healthier eating habits among the group members.