Families across Louisiana are getting new tools to make healthy eating easier, more affordable, and fun for kids.
A new series of “Build a Healthy Meal” videos highlights simple, nutritious recipes designed for children and teens to help prepare themselves. The latest series features youth from Teen Chef and 4-H programs, working alongside nutrition experts to create meals that are both healthy and budget-friendly.
Each episode pairs a middle or high school student with an LSU AgCenter nutrition agent, showcasing practical cooking skills and encouraging young people to take an active role in their health. The goal is to build lifelong healthy eating habits by making nutrition accessible and engaging at an early age.
“We are excited to continue this partnership and expand this series,” said Dr. Monique Jones, Medical Director of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “Helping children understand the connection between nutrition and health at an early age can make a lasting impact on preventing chronic conditions later in life.”
The series includes a variety of kid-friendly recipes that families can easily recreate at home, such as air fryer chicken nuggets with roasted broccoli, pecan wild rice, taco empanadas, three sisters soup, and a sushi stack. These meals are designed to use simple, affordable ingredients while supporting balanced nutrition.
“Learning to prepare easy, healthy, and tasty dishes using low-cost ingredients is a win for families and their health,” said Sandra May, Registered Dietitian with the LSU AgCenter. “By involving young people in the kitchen, we are helping them build confidence and skills that support long-term well-being.”
In addition to the newest videos, families can access a full library of recipes and nutrition resources online, along with printable recipe cards that make it easy to try meals at home.
These resources are also shared through community programs, food demonstrations, and nutrition education initiatives across the state, helping reach families where they live and learn.
By combining education, accessibility, and hands-on learning, this initiative supports healthier choices for children and families across Louisiana.