On May 16, the 2026 Dinah Gore 4-H Healthy Food Challenge took place during the Got to Be NC Festival at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. The competition featured 14 teams from across the state that advanced through the east and west regional competitions held in March.
During the contest, teams were challenged to prepare a healthy dish using a mystery ingredient and a selection of pantry items provided onsite. Teams had 40 minutes to plan, cook, and clean up before presenting their completed dish to judges and explaining its preparation, nutritional value, and overall health benefits.
Throughout the competition, youth demonstrated creativity, food preparation knowledge, kitchen safety, and communication skills while sharing the story behind their dishes with judges and spectators.
Supported by the Dinah Gore 4-H Foods, Nutrition, Fitness, and Etiquette Endowment, and presented in partnership with the N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Got to Be NC and the N.C. State Fair, the contest encourages youth to build lifelong skills while exploring healthy living through 4-H.
Overall, the event gives youth the opportunity to strengthen their understanding of nutrition, healthy cooking practices, and food preparation in a hands-on environment.
The first place team in the 14–18 age division traditionally advances to represent North Carolina at the National 4-H Food Challenge held during the State Fair of Texas in Dallas. However, for the first time in the history of the North Carolina contest, two senior teams tied for first place, highlighting the exceptional skill and preparation demonstrated by participants this year.
Due to these unique circumstances, both teams will advance to represent North Carolina at the national competition in Texas later this year.
