Middle school summer camp explores food science, careers

Monday, May 20, 2019

This summer, Kansas State University's Olathe campus is offering the week-long Fun with Food Science camp day camp for junior scientists and foodies.

The camp is from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 15-19 at K-State's Olathe campus. The camp is for students entering sixth grade and exiting eighth grade. Scholarships are being awarded to eight students from underrepresented demographics to underwrite their admission fee.

During the camp, students will learn about the science behind food and the way we taste it, including about the chemistry and packing of processed foods, the five taste groups, food preparation, and the myths and facts about genetic modified organisms.

Campers also will explore food-related careers and put their knowledge and cooking skills to the test when they prepare a "capstone project" in the form of freshly made foods for their families and guests.

"It's a fun, hands-on way to learn about science and future careers," said Laura Loyacono, director of community and education engagement at K-State Olathe.

This year's camp follows on the success of the 2018 summer camps about food and animal health. At those camps, more than 35 students learned about zoonotic diseases; animal nutrition; careers that work with animals and communicating with the public about animals. Students also toured the Kansas City Zoo; made pet treats; made fresh cheese; and bought fresh ingredients from Kansas City River Market to make chicken fajitas and sides.

For more about the Fun with Food Science summer camp, visit olathe.k-state.edu/summercamps.