According to research by Tuffs University, youth in 4-H are two times more likely to make healthier choices.

"Twice as likely to make healthy choices. That is very good news. In a world filled with unhealthy options, young people need to know how to choose what is best for their own health and well-being. Healthy living is a top priority for the 4-H youth development program. In 4-H, youth of all ages learn by developing a passion in their areas of interest and lead as they innovate and serve as social change agents. Through learning and leading, youth in 4-H discover how their choices impact themselves, their peers, their families and communities." (Dorothy Freeman, Associate dean and Minnesota state 4-H director)

On December 19th, 2017 Mason County 4-H and EFNEP held a one-day Healthy Cupcake Wars competition. Ten youth competed in baking from-scratch healthy cupcakes to present to judges to win the grand prize and bragging rights to the fall edition of Healthy Cupcake Wars. 44% of participants were male and 56% were female. The healthy cupcakes consisted of replacing ingredients like oil for apple sauce, using zucchini/potatoes/fruit and low-fat options. There were three rounds where teams would be scored on presentation, taste, safety, and technique. No teams were eliminated and the winner was determined by the team who had the highest total score from the combined second and third rounds. Round one was used as a practice round and no score was given. 

100% of teams improved from round one to round two and 100% of the participants used judges comments from round one to implement for round two. 67% of the participants had previously made cupcakes from scratch. 100% of participants showed verbal interest in competing again in the spring, and also 100% of youth verbally agreed they learned something new, and plan on continuing baking healthy cupcakes at home to prepare for the next competition.