WIREDGOV

Research released in the last month showed that 57% of 18-25 year-olds are leaving home without the ability to cook simple recipes such as Spaghetti Bolognese.

This national study of cooking skills was compiled following a debate attended by John Hayes MP, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, celebrity chef James Martin, and a number bodies who pledged their support for the campaign, including The Prince’s Trust.

Researchers discovered that whilst the majority of young people claimed they could cook, when tested on popular recipes such as Spaghetti Bolognese, curry and even the humble Yorkshire Pudding, the majority simply couldn’t. Only 6% of the 18-25 age group could make all three of these recipes.

The study showed that a fifth of 25 year olds hadn’t cooked any scratch meals for themselves “in the last seven days” with many saying they relied on ready meals and take-aways. Many of those interviewed believe that their parents were much more skilled at cooking when they were a similar age.

This research marks the launch of a new campaign – 5by25 – which calls for young people to be given the support to master at least five simple recipe dishes by the age of 25.

5by25 is aimed at helping youth and parent groups co-ordinate their activities behind this single purpose. Core to the campaign is www.5by25.com, which teaches users 25 basic recipes, as well as general cooking skills and tips.

The Prince's Trust Leaving Care and Mentoring project in London & the South East inspires care leavers about cooking. As almost 10% of Trust supported young people are in, or are leaving care, giving support around the transition from care to independent living, including cooking skills is vital.

Study sponsored by EBLEX.