Middle School Summer Campers Explore Food Science, Careers

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

During the camp, students will learn about the science behind food and the way we taste it, as well as 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 K-State Olathe’s 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 and fresh cheese and bought fresh ingredients from Kansas City River Market to make chicken fajitas and sides.

The Fun with Food Science camp is July 15-19. The camp is for students entering sixth grade through those exiting eighth grade. Scholarships will be awarded to underwrite the admission fees for eight students from underrepresented demographics.

JCERT funding supports K-State Olathe’s science education outreach programs to area K-12 school districts and other schools in the Greater Kansas City area.

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