Ohio State- Hamilton County Extension

Today is National Food Waste Day! It’s a great reminder that small actions at home can make a big difference. Families can work together to save food, save money, and help the planet.
Here are a few easy ideas to try:
Plan meals together so food gets used instead of wasted.
Create an “Eat Me First” bin in the fridge for foods that need to be eaten soon.
Have a leftover challenge and turn last night’s meal into something new.
Shop with a list so you only buy what you need.
Freeze extras to enjoy later instead of throwing them away.
Small changes can add up to less waste, more savings, and smarter food habits for the whole family!

Find tips on reducing food waste in EFNEP! Sign up here: https://go.osu.edu/efnepclass

Parts of the Buckeye State could see frost early this week — especially Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Be sure to cover any blooming trees or other vulnerable outdoor plants.

Spring storms can happen anytime—be ready if the power goes out!
• Keep your fridge at 40°F or below and freezer at 0°F
• Avoid opening doors to keep the cold air inside
• Food in the fridge stays safe up to 4 hours
• A full freezer keeps food safe up to 48 hours (24 hours if half-full)
• Use coolers with ice to keep important foods cold if the outage lasts longer
If perishable foods like meat, dairy, or leftovers have been above safe temperatures—when in doubt, throw it out.
Stay safe and be prepared for this storm season
Learn the best practices for storing food safely with EFNEP. Sign up here: https://go.osu.edu/efnepclass

4-H Camper Registration is Now Open!
Camp Dates: June 9–12, 2026
Who Can Attend: Youth ages 8–13
Location: 4-H Camp Graham 164 Spring Hill Rd., Clarksville, OH 45113.

From campfires and crafts to games and nature exploration, 4-H Camp is the perfect place for youth to learn, grow, and make lasting memories.

Register here: go.osu.edu/clerhamcamp26
Deadline to register: May 10, 2026

🥪✨ April 12 = National Grilled Cheese Day!
Celebrate with a lighter twist on a classic favorite: whole grain bread, melty cheese, and a boost of veggies 🥦🍅 for a sandwich that’s just as nourishing as it is nostalgic.
What’s your favorite healthy add-in? 👇
Try this veggie-packed grilled cheese:
https://celebrateyourplate.org/.../supreme-veggie-grilled...
💡 For more nutrition tips, budget-friendly recipes, and ways to save:
go.osu.edu/efnepclass

Healthy Eating on a Budget
Grocery shopping with your family can be a great way to teach kids about healthy choices and saving money.
Try these simple tips:
Choose store brands and compare prices
Use coupons for foods you already buy
Buy fruits and vegetables in season
Try low-cost protein foods like beans, eggs, peanut butter, and canned fish
Healthy meals can still fit your budget.
Discover more nutrition and money-saving tips in an EFNEP class:
https://go.osu.edu/efnepclass

Flying a kite is a perfect spring activity that gets everyone running, laughing, and looking up at the sky instead of down at screens. The changing wind teaches kids patience and perseverance, while running provides great aerobic exercise that supports heart health, improves coordination, and boosts overall fitness. Spending time outdoors in fresh air and sunlight can also enhance mood and support overall well-being. Watching a kite soar together creates joyful memories and strengthens family bonds.
Discover fun ways to keep your family active with EFNEP. Join us here: https://go.osu.edu/efnepclass

Egg Bites With so many ways to customize these convenient egg bites, breakfast boredom is a thing of the past.

Spring holiday meals are for making memories—not foodborne illness! Keep food safety in mind:
🚫 Avoid the “Danger Zone” (40°F–140°F):
• Don’t leave food out more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s over 90°F)
• Keep hot foods HOT (140°F or above)
• Keep cold foods COLD (40°F or below)
Safe food = healthy families
For nutrition tips, recipes, and ways to save money: go.osu.edu/efnepclass