Eat REAL

Congratulations Nikkole!

We at Eat REAL are proud to share that our own Nikkole Turner was recognized by Nourish Knoxville for her work in the community.

Read the full article below:

Dining out is challenging if you care about eating healthy, locally, and consciously. Restaurants can claim they source locally or cook from scratch without any real oversight. Is that tomato soup really just Campbells? 🤷‍♀️ Organizations like Eat REAL Tennessee and our #localfoodhero Nikkole Turner want to change that.

Nikkole grew up on a farm, 40 minutes from the nearest fast food joint. She gardened, cared for animals, and was involved in FFA. She eventually moved to the big city and worked a desk job. She knew it wasn’t working out when her employer asked her to solicit a fast food sponsor. She couldn’t compromise her values, and fortunately for us, was hired by Eat REAL Tennessee.

Eat REAL Tennessee certifies foodservice businesses on their commitment to healthful, sustainable menu options. Registered Dietitians survey restaurants on a point-based system using the following categories
✅RESPONSIBLE: menu boasts whole grains, fruits, and vegetables

✅EPICUREAN: kitchen cooks from scratch with single ingredients
✅AGRICULTURE: produce and animal products are sourced with location and sustainability in mind
                            ✅LEADERSHIP: healthy children’s menu options and environmental sustainability.

Eat Real Tennessee exists in partnership with the State of Tennessee Department of Health. They certify restaurants, state parks, colleges, and even the Knox County Mobile Meals. Nikkole hopes more schools, hospitals, and universities become certified. If you’re interested in learning more about Eat Real restaurants or becoming certified, visit https://eatreal.org/tennessee/

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