Healthy eating fair: Learning about food, ecosystem and microbes

2025-02-25

The United States of America School in Ricaurte, Cuenca, was filled with joy and learning during the Healthy Eating Fair, an event that brought the community together to celebrate the importance of healthy and conscious eating. The fair, organized by the Niño a Niño Foundation with the support of the Cantonal Health Council and ReAct Latin America, stood out for its emotional impact in the field of school health. It also provided an opportunity to learn and reflect. The importance of healthy eating, along with the crucial role of bacteria and other microorganisms in our food system, was highlighted."

Like a bustling market, the school’s playgrounds were filled with students and a variety of colorful foods. Fathers and mothers actively participated by preparing various healthy and ancestral dishes. Mote pata, mote sucio (corn cooked with pork rinds), various potato dishes, tubers such as sweet potato and cassava, sweets made from local and seasonal fruits, dairy products, and cereals gave color and life to the educational establishment. The fair became a space for learning and reflection, where the importance of healthy eating and the crucial role played by bacteria and other microorganisms in our food system were highlighted.

Food for stomach and thought

These dishes not only delighted the attendees’ palates but also highlighted the rich cultural and nutritional heritage of Ecuador, promoting healthy and sustainable food while fostering a sense of community and belonging.

“This fair is to motivate students, teachers, and parents to eat well and lead a healthy life,”

said Ronny Puma, a tenth-grade student.

“This helps us to have a better quality of life, to be healthy, both physically and mentally,”

concluded Joel Lozada, a student in the same year.

One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of an impressive mural about the microbial world and the crucial role of bacteria in food. This colorful and lively mural, created by seventh-grade children under the direction of artist Fernando Carrillo, not only beautifies the school but also serves as a visual reminder of the importance of microorganisms in our daily lives, in food production, and in the sustainability of the web of life.

Role of music and art

Music and art played central roles in the fair, providing a vibrant soundtrack and captivating visuals that complemented the dining experience. Local artists and students showcased their talents through musical performances and artistic presentations, creating a festive and enriching atmosphere. Traditional melodies and cultural dances added a special touch to the event, highlighting the region’s cultural richness and its close relationship with nature and food.

“We have worked together as an entire educational community—students, teachers, and parents—to teach through food the importance of caring for Mother Earth. Water, food, and the microbial world go beyond what is included in educational curricula,”

emphasized Lorena Ochoa from the Niño a Niño Foundation, coordinator of this project through the Educational Alforja program.

“Today we celebrate not only food but culture, health, and community. This event is proof of what we can achieve when we work together for a healthier and more sustainable future for ourselves and the planet,”

said Dr. Arturo Quizhpe, Director of ReAct Latin America.

The fair became a space for learning and reflection, where the importance of healthy eating and the crucial role played by bacteria and other microorganisms in our food system were highlighted.