Consumers are inundated with food decisions daily and it is not always clear what the healthier food choice is whether you are purchasing at the grocery store, preparing your favorite family recipe at home, or dining out. It is also important to recognize that food choices are largely driven by our environment which is unique for each person and community. It is also established that consumers who spend more time on food-related decisions are more likely to have better health outcomes.

In response to this, Family Consumer Science Extension Agents in 11 counties provided the Mastering Food Choices program which focuses on ways to make healthful food decisions in a variety of settings. This 6-lesson program takes into consideration the local food environment and respects food-based traditions within families and cultures. Emphasis is placed on modifying recipes to increase healthfulness, recognizing portion size, and understanding how to make healthy choices at home and when dining out. 

Across the state, 1,183 individuals who participated in the program adopted one or more positive practices in food selection. In addition, 1,016 individuals reported modifying ingredients and/or preparation techniques of recipes prepared at home to improve nutrition. When dining out, 680 individuals considered nutrition and/or portion control. Overall, 805 individuals reported eating foods for the purpose of improving their overall health. 

As a relatively new program within Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, additional agents should begin adopting the program with more and more Kentuckians feeling empowered to make healthier choices wherever they are purchasing or consuming food.