NMSU Extension launches food safety video game for kids
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KRQE) – A new video game that aims to young kids and teens about food safety was created by a team from the New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service.
The media production team from NMSU’s Innovation Media Research and Extension and Learning Games Lab in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences developed “Theme Park Kitchen.” The game includes information on food storage and preparation, safe cooking times for meat, poultry and fish, and how to avoid cross-contamination.
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The game was funded through a U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture New Technologies for Agriculture Extension grant.
“Youth learn cooking and food handling behavior from those around them, who may also be unaware of the importance of food safety and proper processes. To address this need, our team developed ‘Theme Park Kitchen,’ an online learning game that teaches youth food safety practices in engaging ways,” Matheus Cezarotto, Educational Technology Extension specialist with Innovative Media Research and Extension, stated in a news release. “Players explore the endearing world of a theme park while prepping and serving food of increasing complexity. As they learn the ropes, they must remember which actions add or remove contamination, to keep their customers safe.”
During the game’s creation, NMSU Learning Games Lab team worked with 40 local youth to test and provide feedback of the game.
A redesign of “Ninja Kitchen,” which launched in 2011, “Theme Park Kitchen” is more accessible, enhances the diversity of representation and avoids cultural stereotyping. During the game’s creation, NMSU Learning Games Lab team worked with 40 local youth to test and provide feedback of the game.
To play the game, click here.
