Reed urges R.I. kids to share healthy recipes

WASHINGTON – Sen. Jack Reed is encouraging Rhode Island kids to show off their culinary skills and win a trip to the second annual White House Kids’ “State Dinner.”
First Lady Michelle Obama, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, and Epicurious.com, are offering kids a chance to participate in a nationwide recipe challenge to promote healthy school lunches.
The winner from each state will be invited to a White House Kids’ “State Dinner” this summer.
Last year, Caroline Cowart, a 12-year-old from Cranston, was selected as the winner from Rhode Island. Cowart’s healthy recipe for a “Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Omelet” was one of 54 winners selected from more than 1,200 participants nationwide.
Entries should represent each of the food groups, either in one dish or as parts of a lunch meal, including: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and low-fat dairy foods. Entrants are encouraged to reference the nutritional guidelines of the USDA’s site, ChooseMyPlate.gov, to ensure recipes meet the primary criterion of being healthier.
“This is a great opportunity for kids and their parents to work together to promote healthy living,” Reed said. “The contest is a fun way for kids and their parents to share recipes for good food and healthy eating habits.”
Recipes for the 2013 contest may be submitted now through May 12, either online at or via mail at: The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge & Kids’ “State Dinner,” c/o Epicurious.com, 1166 Avenue of the Americas, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10036