Farm to School month is being celebrated by Utah State University (USU) Extension’s Create Better Health Program with a large competition.
The program is joining schools, preschools, non-profits and other food enthusiasts with the nine state CRUNCH OFF competition. Utah will be competing against Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Colorado, North and South Dakota, and Wyoming to determine which will be crowned as the Mountain Plains Region Crunch Champion.
This will be determined through deciding who has the most crunch into local apples or produce per capita. Students who are in the Emery School District (ESD) will engage in apple-related activities and art projects in order to raise awareness of the benefits of farm-fresh foods. On Oct. 23, school lunch will include fresh Utah grown apples.
The crunch event is credited as supporting local agriculture, assisting students and community members in gaining a deeper understanding of foods, and encouraging healthy eating. All are encouraged to help Utah win the crown by joining in the crunch event that day.