Author: Amanda Wilson
Planning Unit: McCracken County CES
Major Program: Family and Consumer Sciences 4-H Core Curriculum
Plan of Work: Nutrition Education through Cooperative Extension
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
The State of Obesity report states that Kentucky has the third highest obesity rate for youth ages 10 to 17 in the nation. It is our goal to reduce this number in our county. One way we are currently working towards reducing these statics is by proving a county culinary team. The sole purpose of this team is to educate youth about nutritional facts of food, and the functionality of various items. The McCracken County Culinary team were are comprised of 3 members, who take pleasure in cooking. One team member reported noticing a change in self as she became more vocal. The club promotes teamwork, as well as prompts members to tap into their creative sides. All member mentioned how the club allowed them to be creative in coming up with new dishes. Club members are encouraged to use a variety of food as well as heat sources. One young lady mentioned enjoying the flexibility is heat sources used. The Culinary Team won the state competition and traveled to Dallas, TX to compete in the National Food Challenge. The team was accompanied by their club leader and agent. This experience was educational all around. During the preparation period for the National event team members had the opportunity to cook with various foods. This expanded their knowledge in food, as well as different spices and cuisines. The team’s dish of pork chop on fresh green beans won 7th place in the nation. In addition to learning about foods and developing flavors, all team members mentioned working together with a group was a new experience. Cooking as a team promotes communication, and a sense of dependability amongst teammates. A key component of the culinary club is researching and providing the nutritional breakdown of the dishes prepared. This opens up a world of thinking about what they prepare. They are encouraged to also learn about substitutions which causes them to think out of the box. These three club members have presented information about their club and winnings at several events. They are spreading the word of healthy eating and cooking. Our county will continue to provide the culinary cooking club to impact as many youth possible in the area of healthy food preparation, eating, and nutritional information.
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