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Parents FAQ
What is Veggie U?
Veggie U is a 501 ( c ) (3) not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to improving children’s eating habits, developing an understanding of sustainable agriculture and promoting the importance of good nutrition in a fun way. Veggie U is located within the Culinary Vegetable Institute in Milan, Ohio.
What is the Veggie U program and curriculum about?
A belief that diet is the culprit in many illnesses suffered by young people including obesity, diabetes and learning difficulties prompted them to join forces with top chefs, some of the area’s finest educators, a nutritionist and a local physician to see how they could impact this challenge
The Veggie U organization distributes a 5-week science curriculum and all the supplies needed for hands-on activities like planting seeds, caring for worm farms and sampling vegetables to 4th grade and special needs classrooms nationwide, all at no cost to the schools.
The Veggie U program covers the national science standards for the 4th grade.
How did Veggie U get started?
In the Spring of 2003, a group of area Master Teachers and nutritionists spent more than 18 months volunteering their free time to formulate a curriculum teaching an Earth to Table concept aimed at fourth-graders. A kit complete with seeds, soil, flats, root view boxes, grow lights and a worm farm gives the teacher needed material for this hands-on study. These materials allow the student to see, hear, taste, feel and experience the process of planting, growing, harvesting – and eating the results.
Is the Veggie U program in my child’s school?
You can certainly ask your child’s teacher or principal. Or you can e-mail our Education & Volunteer coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
If the Veggie U program is not in my child’s school, how can I help to get it there?
There are many ways that you can help to place the Veggie U curriculum within your child’s school. Veggie U is a not-for-profit organization and relies on the support and donations of individuals and corporations. You, and perhaps other parents within your school can give us a call and make a direct donation. You can work with your PTO and discuss the possibility of a fundraiser. Or, we would be happy to discuss other options. Please e-mail our Education & Volunteer Coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
How much does the Veggie U program cost?
The initial cost of the Veggie U kit is $450. The refill cost is $225.
Can I purchase the Veggie U program for our home?
Although the Veggie U program was developed for use within the classroom and is aimed at providing teachers with a turn-key, 5-week curriculum, it is available for individual purchase. It will certainly provide an interactive, educational opportunity for parents and children alike.