Ken Lay
On Thursday, students from Knox County schools took a break from their studies for an exciting outing. They visited the 25th Knox County Food Show at the Knoxville Expo Center. This event is a chance for students to help shape the menu for their school cafeterias for the coming 2026-27 school year.
The exhibit hall was packed with over 600 vendors offering everything from barbecue and biscuits to juices and desserts. Students eagerly sampled the various dishes and voted for their favorites by placing stickers at the vendor booths.
Brett Foster, the Director of School Nutrition for Knox County Schools, emphasized the show’s importance. “We’ve been doing this for over two decades,” she said. After a pause due to COVID-19, the event has returned stronger than ever.
“We’ll have students here from 9 AM to 1 PM,” Foster explained, adding that vendors receive short breaks to refresh their booths between groups. Students from third to 11th grade came from all over, representing every corner of the school district. Each time slot welcomed 200 to 250 students, making it a bustling affair.
The day wasn’t just fun for the students; vendors appreciated the interactions too. Tyra Noe from Trident Seafood commented, “We love seeing the kids. This has been going on for 25 years!” Others, like Tom Michalewski of Rich’s, highlighted the value of receiving feedback directly from the kids. “This is a great opportunity for schools to hear what the kids want,” he said.
Data from a recent survey indicated that 75% of students believe having a say in their meals can encourage healthier eating habits. This statistic shows that events like the food show have lasting impacts beyond just fun and food sampling.
Social media buzz around the event has been positive, with students sharing their favorite bites and experiences online. Posts often include photos or videos showcasing their top picks, helping create excitement for healthy eating choices.
Overall, the Knox County Food Show not only allows students to enjoy delicious samples but also gives them a voice in their school meals. This collaboration between students and vendors fosters a sense of community and promotes healthier eating in schools.
For more insights on school nutrition programs, you can check out the USDA’s recent findings on school meal improvements here.
