While Jamie Oliver may not label himself a legend, his contributions to culinary arts and food education have earned him that distinction. Recently, Good Housekeeping had the opportunity to sit down with this renowned English TV chef in New York City, coinciding with the release of his episode on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Legends.

Empowering Communities Through Food Education

Jamie Oliver, now 49 years old, took time during the filming of the documentary to reflect on his journey so far. “I’ve never really paused to look back,” he confessed. “It’s been an emotionally intense quarter-century, filled with layers and multiple facets of my personality.” This introspection reveals not only his diverse character but also his commitment to transforming how communities interact with food.The essence of Jamie’s work lies in empowering people through knowledge about food. He emphasizes the importance of teaching children early about nutrition, cooking methods, and the origins of ingredients. According to Jamie, understanding these basics can significantly enhance national productivity, happiness, mental health, and overall well-being. Cooking should be seen as a necessity rather than a luxury. His travels across the globe, especially within the Blue Zones—regions known for longevity and happiness—have shown him that some of the most innovative recipes emerge from underserved communities. Therefore, he advocates integrating food education into school curriculums, making it accessible to everyone.In Japan, for example, students take turns preparing meals for their peers. These activities incorporate elements of science, such as weighing and measuring ingredients, while fostering an appreciation for teamwork, care, and service. Such hands-on experiences create a lasting impact on young minds, encouraging them to embrace healthy eating habits naturally.

A Comprehensive Approach to Food Literacy

To facilitate this mission, Jamie has introduced the 10 Skills Food Education Platform in the United States. This free resource offers schools and organizations detailed lesson plans, engaging videos, and practical instructions aimed at nurturing essential cooking abilities among students. By starting early, children develop confidence and joy in handling food, whether baking cakes or experimenting with savory dishes featuring meat and vegetables.This platform builds upon Jamie’s own childhood experiences. Having begun cooking at age eight, he believes that introducing kids to less healthy treats initially can spark interest before progressing towards more nutritious options. Educators play a crucial role in ensuring students feel comfortable exploring various flavors, textures, and even bitter or sour tastes. Ultimately, the goal is to demystify real food and promote diversity in culinary exploration.Jamie recalls fond memories of involving his five children in kitchen activities from a young age. Tasks like washing garden produce, spinning salads, and crafting dressings instilled foundational skills and independence. As they grew older, tasks evolved into creating tacos, pizzas, and toppings, allowing them to express creativity and control over their creations. Baking remained a favorite pastime, providing both fun and learning opportunities.

Promoting Lifelong Learning About Food

For parents seeking to cultivate similar habits at home, Jamie suggests consistent engagement without immediate judgment. Days may vary, but persistence yields results over time. Weekly visits to farmer’s markets or street markets offer enriching adventures, sparking curiosity and comfort around fresh produce. Even simple walks through such venues can inspire awe and learning.Today, with his eldest child reaching adulthood, family gatherings revolve around casual yet meaningful interactions. Sharing glasses of wine, music playlists, and conversations while cooking together strengthens bonds and reinforces values passed down through generations. Although his kids might still rely on him for meal preparation, Jamie views this act of service as an expression of love and thoughtfulness.Looking ahead, Jamie remains optimistic about continuing to contribute positively to society. With another 25 years potentially ahead, he anticipates further innovations and impactful initiatives. His passion for connecting people through food persists, promising exciting developments for those fortunate enough to witness his ongoing legacy unfold.