Addressing Criteria in the Development of a New 4-H Foods Project

Abstract

As youth and society changes, 4-H projects must change and adapt. Make it with Mixes, a 4-H curriculum, provides a new way of looking at food preparation. It may be one of the first state foods projects created without an emphasis on “from scratch” cooking or baking. Aimed at beginning 4-H members, ages 9 to 13, the project teaches cooking skills with the aid of commercial mixes. However, the main focus of the project is on making comparisons between food labels, costs per serving, and recognizing quality food products. Science and mathematics activities are also incorporated into the curriculum. This article discusses the organization, criteria and strategies used to create this new foods project.