- K-State home
- 4-H Youth Development
- Projects
- Consumer & Family Sciences
- Foods & Nutrition
Develop your culinary skills as you learn to cook the basics, then advance to gourmet and international meals. You will learn the heritage of many foods as well as consumer buying skills to get the most for your money. Along the way, you will gain an understanding of healthy eating habits, food safety, meal planning, and cooking techniques, all while building confidence in the kitchen.
Explore your Spark! |
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Each 4-H project offers a variety of activities and learning opportunities to suit your interests and strengths. Whether you're just getting started or taking your knowledge to the next level, there are several activities to learn and do throughout your project experience! |
Beginner
- Why food is important
- The importance of food safety
- Common food preparation equipment
Intermediate
- Why nutrition is important in our daily lives
- How to include exercise in our daily routine
- How to prepare healthy snacks
Advanced
- Plan and prepare foods, including vegetables, cakes and casseroles
- Ways to incorporate exercise into daily life
- Basic outdoor cookery skills
- Food preparation and safety guidelines
- The diversity of food preferences
- How to prepare foods on the go
Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Senior Advanced
Home Food Preservation Series
- Boiling Water Canning Project Manual
- Pressure Canning Project Manual
- Freezing Project Manual
- Drying Project Manual
General Foods and Nutrition Resources
- Food Culture and Reading, (ages 9-11)
- Food Safety Recommendations for Acceptable Fair Exhibits
- Food Safety Recommendations for Food Preservation Exhibits
- Food Safety of Frosting and Fillings, MF3544
- Judge's Guide for Foods and Nutrition Exhibits, 4H488
- Choose My Plate
Additional Foods Curriculum
Project Leader Resources
County Level
Medal presented at your 4-H award recognition event
State Level
Medallion and Scholarship to attend National 4-H Congress
- Participants may attend National 4-H Congress once as an active 4-H member
National Level
Represent Kansas at National 4-H Congress
Learn more about project-based events here or contact your local office for additional information.
State 4-H Family and Consumer Sciences Judging Contest
When: September
Where: Hutchinson, KS
Award: Educational trips, scholarships
Completing a successful 4-H project is just the beginning of finding your spark. Members can take several meaningful steps to further develop skills and interests. Learn more about these exciting opportunities in career exploration: