By Samantha Horn
Howard County Extension Agent-4-H/Staff Chair
The Howard County Culinary Clovers 4-H Food Challenge team — Anna Kate McKinnon, Abi Webb, Payeton Bagley, and Brody Cupples — earned top honors at the Mid-South Food Challenge on Feb. 28. The team competed against 18 other teams representing Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Missouri.
The competition was held at the Memphis Convention Center during the Mid-South Farm and Gin Show. During the event, teams were presented with a secret ingredient and given just sixty minutes to create an original dish incorporating that ingredient. In addition, participants were challenged to include as many food groups as possible to ensure a well-balanced and nutritious recipe.
Once their dish was completed, each team delivered a formal presentation to a panel of judges. Teams explained their recipe, preparation methods, nutritional value, and the overall benefits of their dish. The event combines culinary skills, nutrition knowledge, teamwork, time management, and public speaking skills, making it a well-rounded educational experience.
Competitions like the Mid-South Food Challenge provide young people with valuable hands-on learning opportunities while also strengthening their confidence and communication skills.
For more information about the Howard County 4-H program and upcoming opportunities, contact the Howard County Extension Office at 870-845-7517.
