“Can I Play with my Food?”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
ALI MANNING has a degree in Food Science & Technology and over 14 years in the food industry. She is passionate about environmental sustainability, food education, and systemic changes within the food industry. She is the creator of Food Science 4 Kids, a food education program, that teaches grade school children food science and nutrition. She is also the Program Consultant for Project Green Fork, a restaurant sustainability program of Clean Memphis. She is a food business consultant, a PC QI-certified auditor, and a food influencer. She is a multi-passionate entrepreneur with a global reach.
Check out a recent article by Choose 901 entitled Local Food Scientist, Turned Author or WREG’s Live @9am segment on “How to tackle your digestive woes” with Kontji Anthony.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
CAN I PLAY WITH MY FOOD? is an early-reader picture book that explores food and science through the eyes of two sisters. Nema and Lexi let their imaginations run wild as they discover where food comes from and how a simple experiment can shape their dreams. This story shows children that playing with food can be fun and educational, but it also highlights the importance of acceptance. While others might think a disability like Down’s Syndrome is a hindrance, Nema and Lexi show us that the ingredients of compassion, acceptance, and love make anything possible.
Since publishing on February 22, 2022, we’ve sent thousands of books to families and all in 10 local schools and libraries nationwide!
Buy yours now! Barnes & Noble, Walmart.com, Amazon.com
“Food is a basic human right and necessity. It is our responsibility to make healthy, nutritious food accessible to those in need. It’s too good, to waste!”
Yet we rise! In order to unveil the layers of legacies untold within the food system, let us begin at the root and sow the seeds of understanding around #BlackFoodRising.
Ingenuity in Black food culture is rooted in being systemically forced into hardship and food insecurity. But our legacy shines beyond resilience. This panel will unveil the critical role of Black influences such as food justice, culinary education, health & nutrition, and food waste innovation. Join us on this transformative quest to create a new table — dispelling narrow narratives and fuelling our ancestors' wildest dreams within the food system. Listen to our stories using the link below!
What is Food Science 4 Kids program?
Food Science is a scientific discipline that isn't familiar but is used daily through baking, cooking, and eating. FS4Kids teaches children STEAM with a food focus. We make food relatable to students of all ages and provide interactive activities that can be done virtually or in person.
Classes range from agriculture to flavor development and food technology. Kids in our program are exposed to new foods, techniques, and science through hands-on, practical learning that can be done with family or friends.
If you or someone you know is interested in having special programming at your school, church, or kitchen. Contact us at ali@umamifcc.com!
With many thanks,
Ali Manning
Founder-CEO, Umami Food Consulting, LLC
Episode 1: Spread Love in a Unique Way
We all know the Valentine's Day tradition of getting chocolates and flowers for your sweetheart. But watch this Live at 9 segment to learn a unique way to spread the love with founder of Umami Food Consulting and 'Food Science for Kids,' author Ali Manning.
Carpe Diem
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Carpe Diem 〰️
Testimonials
“She really enjoyed the experiment and loved your presentation. Great job! I’m glad she gets to see someone that looks like her that’s a scientist.”
“This project was a huge hit!! We already decided we’ll be making them (homemade Pop-tarts) every Saturday morning as a new family tradition! Thanks for doing these!!”
C.W. Stand Beside Her event in partnership with Girls Scouts x FedEx:
“Chef Ali the ice cream was a “HIT”! I was amazed that the ice cream actually formed, the girls had a blast shaking the bags, was like a cooking class and science project all in one.”
Boy’s Science-themed birthday party:
“Everyone was talking about how much fun it was. I thank you so much for making my idea a reality, way better than I could have ever imagined!!!”
Special Classes Are Available!
Project Based Learning Option
This option is available for virtual or in-person education settings. Students K-8th grade will explore a fun and exciting approach to science using food! They will understand the basics of food, flavors , texture and do hands-on experiments that are sure to keep them busy. The experiments will be easy enough to do with little supervision or independently, making this the perfect at home activity.
Memphis Botanic Garden
Eat the Rainbow in Partnership with the Memphis Botanic Garden and Sprouts
This video puts a new spin on eating the rainbow with a game show. Watch contestants compete for a healthy diet and win the knowledge of how vital fruit and veggies are to a healthy body. Scientist Ali Manning concludes the video with a few fun facts about healthy eating. Take a look!
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