Crystal Lake School District 47 students to battle in 3rd annual cooking competition

CRYSTAL LAKE – Fourth- and fifth-grade students from Crystal Lake Elementary School District 47 will face off in a cooking battle March 24.

The third annual Future Chefs National Challenge, hosted by food service provider Sodexo, is set for 1 to 3 p.m. at Hannah Beardsley Middle School, 515 E. Crystal Lake Ave., Crystal Lake.

Students earned their spot in the competition by submitting recipes to their teachers and school cafeteria workers, who selected a finalist from each District 47 elementary school to participate in the cook-off.

This year, their cooking will adhere to the theme of healthy Asian food. Students will test their recipes in front of a panel of judges at the March 24 event. Judges will evaluate the culinary work based on originality, ease of preparation, presentation, kid-friendly appeal and healthfulness.

“Too often we hear about obesity in kids and kids not making healthy choices,” Sodexo general manager Kathy Wicinski said. “The whole basis for this competition is to help educate kids about healthy eating habits and inspire them to play an active role in meal preparation.”

Participants will receive a framed plaque, medal, chef’s coat and apron, as well as a backpack with cooking utensils. The winner will receive a grand prize that includes a basket of cooking supplies and a Fitbit.

Students, parents and the general public are invited to attend.