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Earlier this month, chef Jamie Oliver, a trailblazer when it comes to food, nutrition and children, won the prestigious TED prize for 2010. ‘TED’ stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design, and is a non-profit organisation with some of the world’s most influential people as members. Previous TED prize winners include former US president Bill Clinton, as well as musician Bono, putting the celebrity chef in esteemed company. Besides being awarded $100,000, Jamie was granted a ‘wish’ that the foundation is commited to helping him realise.

A nutrition revolution

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In the acceptance speech given by chef Jamie Oliver, global food giants were criticised for promoting obesity, and making a huge profit from selling unhealthy foods. He argued that money should be invested in measures to tackle unhealthy weight gain, which has become a world crisis. Oliver asked the members of the TED to support him in educating children and communities about diet and nutrition. He called for a nutrition revolution, asking that the TED members provide resources, talent, and the hard work needed to make his dream a reality.

From the UK to the US

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Jamie Oliver’s school dinner campaign revolutionised schools’ approaches to feeding children throughout the UK, and he continues to campaign for better, healthier, school dinners. He has now expanded his quest, moving on to the United States. In a recent project in Huntington, in West Virginia, he has been helping community members to swap a diet of fast food for a healthier diet of freshly cooked food.

What we eat affects everything

According to chef Jamie Oliver, what we eat affects everything, from mood and health to behaviour and concentration. It is estimated that one-third of the UK’s children is overweight, with one-quarter being obese. Childhood obesity is linked with the increasing prevalence of childhood diabetes, a pressing concern for the nation. Jamie Oliver hopes to ultimately reach millions with his message, with the help of the TED.

Chef Jamie Oliver will continue to spread his message of healthy, freshly cooked food around the world, and with the support of the TED, is likely to have even more success in the future.