March is National Nutrition Month®, an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to help people make informed food choices and develop healthy eating habits. Each year, National Nutrition Month® (NNM) highlights a specific theme. This year, we will explore different ways that “Food Connects Us.” Whether it’s cooking, sharing meals, or exploring cultural dishes, food plays a vital role in bringing communities together.
Cooking, Food Preparation, and Meal Planning Skills
Cooking is more than just a daily task; it is a skill that empowers you to take control of your nutrition and well-being.
Between 2004 and 2007, 60% of women and 33% of men participated in food preparation on an average day.
When you learn to cook, you gain the confidence to try new ingredients and flavors, making mealtime more enjoyable and less stressful. Learning basic cooking and meal planning skills can make a difference in how you connect with food and nourish yourself and your family.
How Can I Grow My Cooking Skills?
- Start with Simple Recipes Using Pantry Staples – Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with easy recipes that use affordable and accessible ingredients, such as canned beans, whole grains, and frozen vegetables.
- Watch Free Online Cooking Tutorials or Attend Community Classes – Many organizations offer free cooking classes or virtual demonstrations to help individuals improve their skills.
- Experiment with Meal Prepping to Save Time During the Week – Meal prepping can make healthy eating easier by reducing the time needed to prepare meals each day. Try batch-cooking proteins, grains, and vegetables to create balanced meals quickly.
Explore Where Your Food Comes From
Understanding where your food comes from can strengthen your appreciation for the ingredients you use and the people who produce them. It can also encourage you to support local farmers and food systems.
- Reduce Environmental Impact by Supporting Local and Sustainable Practices – Buying locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and supports sustainable farming practices.
- Visit Local Farmers Markets – Pittsburgh has a variety of farmers markets where you can find fresh produce and connect with local growers. Check out a list of Pittsburgh Farmers Markets here.
Learn About Community Resources such as SNAP, WIC, and Local Food Banks
Access to nutritious food is essential for overall health, and various programs exist to support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. In Pittsburgh, more than one in five residents are food insecure, which is more than double the national average. Over 60,000 Pittsburgh residents have difficulty accessing healthy food.
- Recognize the Role of Programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), and Local Food Banks – These programs help families and individuals access nutritious foods and essential services.
- Locate Your Local SNAP or WIC Office – If you or someone you know may benefit from these resources, find out about eligibility and the application process by visiting your local SNAP or WIC office.
- Research Food Pantry Locations and Hours in Your Area – Many food banks provide fresh produce, pantry staples, and prepared meals to those in need. You can locate a nearby food pantry here.
More Resources
To continue your journey of connecting with food, check out these helpful resources:
- Free online cooking tutorials: Eat Right: Cooking Tips and Videos
- Learn about SNAP eligibility and benefits: USDA SNAP Information
- WIC Program Information: USDA WIC
- Find a Local Food Bank: Find Food Resources
- Pittsburgh Farmers Market Locations: Pittsburgh Farmers Markets
As we kick off National Nutrition Month®, take some time this week to explore new ways to connect with food—whether it’s learning to cook, discovering local food sources, or accessing community resources. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate how food connects us all!
References:
- Zeballos, E. More Americans Spend More Time in Food-Related Activities Than a Decade Ago. USDA. Published April 6, 2020. Accessed February 4, 2025. https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2020/april/more-americans-spend-more-time-in-food-related-activities-than-a-decade-ago
- The City of Pittsburgh. Food Access Programs. The City of Pittsburgh. Published 2020. Accessed February 4, 2025. https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Business-Development/Sustainability/Food-Systems/Food-Access-Programs
