Stout students have been promoting healthy eating through a new nutrition program called CHEF: Cooking Healthy, Eating Fresh, which focuses on cooking techniques and quality ingredients.
Hannah Johnson, dietetics major and peer health educator for Student Health Services says the main goal of CHEF is educating students.
鈥淭he program provides a safe, fun, and educational cooking setting where students can learn basic cooking techniques, general nutrition, and food safety in order to prepare a healthy and affordable meal,鈥 said Johnson.
鈥淲e provide a healthy recipe that features certain produce,鈥 said Johnson. 鈥淎t the beginning of the program we teach prepping and cooking techniques. Students then divide into groups, make the meal, and then enjoy their tasty dish. They also receive an email containing the recipe and other nutritional tips.鈥
CHEF was previously called Dorm Friendly Delights, which focused on healthy eating, but now involves students in the cooking process. Additionally, this fall, CHEF has partnered with UW-Sprout, the campus garden, to provide all of the fresh produce for the events.
鈥淓ating local is beneficial to the environment and our health, we also support our local community here at Stout!鈥 Johnson said.
Johnson sees eating healthy and creating good habits at this stage is a great practice.
鈥淎s college students, it is especially important to build healthy eating habits.鈥 Johnson said. 鈥淓ating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, quality protein, and incorporating physical activity and a healthy mindset is something every student needs.鈥
Johnson is hopeful that the events are a great time for students.
鈥淲e hope the students can de-stress, laugh, and enjoy the time spent cooking with their friends/peers.鈥 Johnson said. 鈥淚n addition to learning nutrition information and cooking techniques!鈥
CHEF events are held the first Monday of every month in the basement kitchen of Fleming-Hovlid. The program is slated to occur in the spring.
