Food, fitness and fun are planned for the California Department of Public Health’s Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention program’s Fruit and Veggie Fest to take place Friday, May 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grocery Outlet, 625 Commercial St. in Eureka. The state’s Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention program, in partnership with retailers across California, hosts a series of Fruit and Veggie Fests each year to encourage people to make every meal delicious with the flavors of fruits and vegetables. “Making healthy choices at the store can be the first step to creating healthy habits at home, such as making half our plate fruits and vegetables,” said Michelle Postman, a health education specialist with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Healthy Communities Division, which participates in the program locally. The Grocery Outlet has a variety of activities planned for its Fruit and Veggie Fest. Shoppers can taste healthy recipes, ride on a blender bike, take part in “rethink your drink” infused water tastings, visit the “Ask a Dietitian” booth, try a hands-on gardening activity and have fun in a physical activity circuit. People who attend the event can also get a free cookbook, as well as other prizes. Fruit and Veggie Fests are part of a statewide effort to battle obesity. They are also designed to positively impact how shoppers spend their food dollars and CalFresh benefits. All Californians can enjoy the benefits of the Fruit and Veggie Fest by “liking” the CA Champions for Change on Facebook, where they will receive healthy tips and recipes from chefs and Champions for Change. Champions for Change are everyday moms and dads in California who are making healthy changes for their families and communities. For more information, visit CaChampionsForChange.net.