Annual event highlights the bounty and diversity of Washington-grown foods
The 13th annual Taste
Washington Day, a joyful celebration of locally grown foods in school
cafeterias across Washington state, kicked off this year with great enthusiasm.
Representatives from the farm to school program at the Washington State
Department of Agriculture (WSDA) embarked on a special journey to witness
firsthand how schools in the Ellensburg School District integrate locally
sourced ingredients into their meals.
The first stop on their visit was the
Ellensburg High School Central Kitchen. The group had the pleasure of meeting
with school nutrition leaders Alexandra Epstein-Solfield, Child Nutrition
Director, and Charlotte Green, Nutrition Specialist, and observing the kitchen
staff skillfully prepare fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The
commitment to providing nutritious and delicious meals to students was evident
in the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that filled the kitchen.
Mount Stuart
Elementary School was also in the spotlight during Taste Washington Day.
Students at this school were treated to a delightful lunch featuring produce
from Dagdagan Farm in Wapato, Washington and grass-fed hamburger patties from
Green Bow Farm in Ellensburg. Watermelon slices, roasted grey squash (a zucchini-like
veggie), and other fresh-made dishes from local producers were enjoyed by the
students, who eagerly savored the flavors of their region.
At approximately 12:15 p.m., a moment of
excitement filled the cafeteria as students collectively bit into Washington apples,
generously donated by Chelan Fresh. The sound of a loud crunch resonated
throughout the room, symbolizing the joy and satisfaction that comes from
enjoying wholesome, locally grown food.
This year's Taste Washington Day saw an
impressive participation of more than 40 schools and nearly 50 farmers and food
producers. Taste Washington Day is not just a celebration of farm to school
connections, it is also a platform that allows Washington's children to
discover and appreciate the bounty and diversity of healthy and delicious foods
grown in their home state. It is an opportunity for them to learn about the
importance of local agriculture and the positive impact it has on their health
and the environment.
For more information
about WSDA Farm to School, please visit www.agr.wa.gov/farmtoschool.