N.C. Cooperative Extension - Carteret County Center

06/12/2026

🌮 Did you know store-bought taco seasoning packets are often packed with hidden salt and short on real flavor?

As part of our Med Instead of Meds program, we are all about simple swaps, one being homemade taco seasoning! It takes less than 5 minutes to make, keeps perfectly in the cupboard or freezer, and relies on bold spices like smoky paprika, cumin, and a kick of cayenne, instead of a lot of sodium for flavor.

Wondering how to use it? It is absolutely incredible for fish and shrimp tacos or even tossed over roasted sweet potatoes for a different taste! 🐟🍤🍠 Try it for your next Taco Tuesday!

Get the full recipe here: https://medinsteadofmeds.com/taco-seasoning/

06/10/2026

Stretching your SNAP benefits doesn’t have to be a struggle! 🛒

With a few smart moves, you can fill your cart with healthy, delicious meals without breaking the bank. Here are 3 quick tips for your next grocery run:

🍲Go for store brands: Skip the big names and reach for the "generic" or store-brand versions. They usually have the exact same ingredients but cost way less.

🫘Buy staples in bulk: Stock up on rice, dried beans, and oats. They are filling, shelf-stable and cost much less per serving than pre-packaged meals.

📱Download Store Apps: Clip digital coupons before you go and check the weekly circulars to plan your meals around what’s on sale.

To learn more about the SNAP program, visit the morefood.org website or call the More In My Basket team toll-free at 1-855-240-1451.

06/09/2026

Check out our Master Gardeners!!

06/09/2026

Join today at 3pm on zoom for a New World Screwworm update!

Today the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed additional cases of New World Screwworm in Texas and a case in Lea County, New Mexico. This brings the total confirmed cases to four in Texas and one in New Mexico. Press release: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-confirms-first-case-new-world-screwworm-dog-lea-county-new-mexico

Join the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, along with NC State Extension and NC Cattlemen's Association for virtual town hall style meeting on New World Screwworm and the recent confirmed cases in Texas.

THIS TUESDAY
June 9, 2026
3:00 PM EST

Topics covered include:
• Update on the Texas detections of New World Screwworm
• Efforts to stop progression of this pest
• What to watch for and how to recognize New World Screwworm
• What to do if you suspect New World Screwworm

You can join the webinar using this link ZOOM LINK or by clicking the button below. There is no need to RSVP.

Zoom link: https://ncsu.zoom.us/j/95528037125?pwd=nwfCfb4yvQ5azBnMQ4pDrqOb7FCPjy.1&jst=2

06/09/2026

We are overjoyed to partner with Carteret Food and Health Council with the Donation Station! We could not make this possible without them!

Donation Stations seek to improve access to fresh, locally-grown food while supporting the farmers who grow it. They are designed to combat local food insecurity while raising awareness that a healthy local food system must include every member of the community!

06/03/2026

Are you interested in learning how to preserve your summer harvest? 🍅✨ Join us for our upcoming FREE evening canning classes!

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, we've got you covered. Sign up for one or both sessions:

Water Boiling Canning Class
When: Wednesday, July 15th at 5:30 PM
Best for: Jams, jellies, pickles, and tomatoes
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1990885234329?aff=oddtdtcreator

Pressure Canning Class
When: Wednesday, July 22nd at 5:30 PM
Best for: Low-acid foods like veggies, meats, and soups
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1990885293506?aff=oddtdtcreator

Registration is free, but space is limited! Claim your spot today using the links above. See you there!

If you have any questions please contact Stephanie Stevenson, FCS Agent, at [email protected] or 252-222-6374

05/29/2026

We were honored to participate in the Storm Night 2026 and engage directly with the Down East community. Preparedness is a community effort, and our goal was to provide practical, actionable advice on safeguarding lawns, crops, livestock, and food safety before and after a storm hits. We appreciate everyone who visited our table, and we hope those refrigerator thermometers and handouts serve as a friendly reminder of the simple steps we can take to prepare our homes and families during storms!

CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) — With hurricane season officially starting June 1, local and statewide groups gathered at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum in Harkers Island to discuss flooding c…

05/20/2026

Ever wondered what that EBT card is all about? 🛒✨

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is basically a government-issued debit card that delivers food and cash benefits to those who need a little extra boost. 💳

It’s primarily used for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), helping families put fresh fruits, veggies and essentials on the table. 🍎🥦 The SNAP program also supports our farmers by helping families to buy the food they need.

It works just like a regular bank card,swipe, enter your PIN and you’re good to go! It’s all about providing dignity, nutrition and support to our community members.

If you would like to see if you are eligible for SNAP, visit the More In My Basket website today (morefood.org).

05/13/2026

The More In My Basket website has many SNAP-friendly recipes available for you to try at home. Whether it is spring, summer, winter or fall, you are sure to find something delicious to help stretch your benefits. Visit morefood.org today!

05/06/2026

A summer MED Instead of Meds Series!

Are you interested in adopting a Mediterranean-style eating pattern? Join our comprehensive class series, MED Instead of Meds, which will guide you through 7 straightforward steps to incorporate the Med Way into your daily life. Discover expert tips, practical life hacks, and delicious recipes to support your Mediterranean-inspired eating habits. 🥒🫛🥑🥦🫑🥝🍏🍓🫐🍇🥗🍤🫘🫚🐟

This 6-session series will take place on Tuesdays from 4:00pm-7:00pm at the Carteret County Center, starting June 9th and concluding July 14th. The registration fee is $20.
For more information and to secure your spot, please visit:

Come learn about the Med Lifestyle!