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ABOUT EVENTS News PROGRAMS & SERVICES FACT SHEETS TOPICS COUNTY OFFICES
ABOUT EVENTS News PROGRAMS & SERVICES FACT SHEETS TOPICS COUNTY OFFICES
Ferguson College of AgAg Research

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Nutrition Education

The Fresh Start program, part of Oklahoma State University Extension’s Community Nutrition Education Programs (CNEP), offers free, hands-on nutrition education for adults and families with limited resources. We use the Families Eating Smart and Moving More curriculum developed by NC State University. The program includes eight core lessons covering topics like healthy eating, food safety, budgeting and physical activity, taught by Nutrition Education Assistants (NEAs) in group or individual settings.

Core LessonsParticipants benefit by learning practical skills such as meal planning, cooking and managing food resources. Graduates receive a certificate, a cookbook, and a set of small skill building kitchen tools. After graduation, they may choose to take additional lessons on topics such as pregnancy or infant nutrition, choosing to move more or healthy dining out.

Introduction to Fresh Start

Understand that through Fresh Start, they will learn practical skills for healthier eating and active living. Set a personal or family goal to improve nutrition and physical activity.

Fix it Safe (Food Safety)

Learn and apply food safety practices—Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill—following the Fight BAC! guidelines.

Shop for Value, Check the Facts (Food Labels)

Use the Nutrition Facts label to compare foods, manage portions, and identify whole-grain, low-fat, and low-sodium options to make smarter shopping choices.

Plan: Know What’s for Dinner

Learn how planning meals weekly can save time and money while supporting healthier eating habits. Create a list of family favorite meals, build a one-week dinner menu, and develop a grocery list based on your plan.

Shop: Get the Best for Less

Learn to shop with a list, use ads, coupons, and unit pricing to stretch their food dollars. Practice comparing products in-store to find the best value for their money.

Choosing More Fruits & Vegetables

Discover ways to eat more fruits and vegetables throughout the day by choosing a variety of colors and forms, such as fresh, frozen and canned.

MyPlate

Use MyPlate to make smart food choices, build a balanced meal, and understand how healthy eating and physical activity work together to maintain a healthy weight.

Making Smart Drink Choices

Learn why it’s important to reduce sugary drinks and choose water, low-fat/fat-free milk, and 100% juice (in moderation). Identify strategies for making healthier drink choices.

Contact

Your Local OSU Extension Office

To learn more about this free program, please contact your local OSU extension office.

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