According to the Center for Disease Control adults in the state of Kentucky rank among the 10 highest for poor consumption of fruits and vegetables. Kentucky adult obesity rates also rank among the 10 highest in the United States with 33% of adults in Kentucky reporting a BMI in the obese category. In Daviess County specifically, 30% of adults are classified as obese according to their BMI. Obesity is one of the main factors associated with poor health and increased risk of health issues in the future.

In an effort to address obesity rates and increase consumption of fruits and vegetables among adults in Daviess County the Daviess County Cooperative Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences hosted a monthly series of “Healthy Cooking” classes in 2016 and 2017. The “Healthy Cooking” series provided participants with the opportunity to prepare and try nutritious Plate It Up KY Proud recipes each month. At each class the participants prepared a dish which incorporated fresh, local, in season produce and then take that dish home with them to share with their family and /or friends.

Over a period of 24 months 25 adults and 5 youth participated in the program. Participants gained knowledge related to cooking skills, proper food safety and storage, and were able to introduce new recipes to their family. Program participants reported the program allowed them to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diets and many of them prepared the recipes at home after learning to prepare the recipe during class. One family stated, “This class has allowed us to learn how to cook as a family and try new vegetables we probably would not have tried before. We now purchase a variety of items at the local farmers market to prepare these recipes at home.”