It is so gratifying that the kids in and around Ithaca will get exposure to food science through Can I Play with My Food? Thank you for all the important work you are doing to nourish future scientists, and enjoy your return to Ithaca!
— Timothy Lott Ph.D, Cornell University
About My book
Can I Play with my Food? is an early-reader picture book that explores food and science through the eyes of two sisters. Nema and Lexi let their imaginations run wild as they discover where food comes from and how a simple experiment can shape their dreams. This story shows children that playing with food can be fun and educational but also highlights the importance of acceptance. While others might think a disability like Down’s Syndrome is a hindrance, Nema and Lexi show us that the ingredients of compassion, acceptance, and love make anything possible.
The launch was on 2.22.22, and what a success! Since its release, Can I Play with my Food is in homes and schools nationwide!
Purchase my book for you or someone you know at Walmart.com, Barnes&Noble.com, Amazon.com, or Goodreads.com.
If you live in the Memphis area, find my book at Shelby Farms Gift Shop, Sweet Lala’s Bakery, Novel Bookstore, Burke’s Bookstore, Terra Cotta Nursery, Cafe Eclectic Midtown, and Cooper-Young Gallery and Gift Shop.
For a book reading, signing, or bulk purchasing email info@umamifcc.com
Check out my Latest News Features!
I had the pleasure of interviewing with Gina Neely! We discussed all things food, science, and fun for the kiddos! Check out the full segment on WMC5 Memphis at the JA Wang Learning Center, Feed Your Soul cafe, or click this link to watch my first segment as a contributor on WREG’s Live at 9 am with Kontji Anthony.
2024 SXSW Panel: “Yet We Rise, Breaking Bread with Black Food Leaders”
Ingenuity in Black food culture is rooted in being systemically forced into hardship and food insecurity. But our legacy shines beyond resilience. This panel will unveil the critical role of Black influences such as food justice, culinary education, health & nutrition, and food waste innovation. Join us on this transformative quest to create a new table — dispelling narrow narratives and fuelling our ancestors' wildest dreams within the food system.
Panelists: Vanessa Mukhebi, Eric Adams, Patience Kabwasa, Ali Manning
The Food Scientist
Catch me monthly on WREG news channel 3, Live at 9 am with Kontji Anthony. We’ll discuss everything from food, science, and sustainable communities while doing it in style!
Learn how to stretch your grocery budget with expert advice from food scientist Ali Manning.
Food Scientist Ali Manning shares must-know tips for finding local meat and making your BBQ healthier and still delicious. Watch for expert advice on Live at 9.
Food Scientist Ali Manning joins Live At 9 with some delicious healthy sides to add to your traditional soul food dishes.
Food scientist Ali Manning shares the best ways to stay cool while staying healthy. From a fun Kool-Aid slushie and DIY juice ice-pops to frozen fruit juice for your four-legged friends, everyone should be able to stay cool and enjoy a sweet treat this summer!
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The Food Scientist- FS4Kids
Food Science 4 Kids is a (virtual or in-person) food science and nutrition program we teach grade school children. Students learn food science basics, nutrition, chemistry, and, most of all, how to grow their food! We’ve created a project-based curriculum and activities appropriate for families, teachers, and home-schoolers. FS4Kids has been taught in every educational setting, e.g., camps, extracurricular activities, birthday parties and special programs. Contact us below to learn more about our programs!
Recent ABC 24 news feature!
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The Consultant
Do you need assistance within your food business? We are here to help. With over 12 years in the food industry, we provide product development consultations and nutritional information for scaling. We also offer sustainable solutions and project management services. Check out my latest podcast interview! Passion for Food, Science and Community - Ali Manning | Main and Mulberry: Her Town or Verbally Effective Podcast
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The Author
Can I Play with my Food? Is an early-reader picture book that explores food and science through the eyes of two sisters. Nema and Lexi let their imaginations run wild as they discover where food comes from and how a simple experiment can shape their dreams.
This story shows children that playing with food can be fun and educational, but it also highlights the importance of acceptance.
Contact me for your next book reading or event!
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The Content Creator
My journey to getting back to me has led me to explore all of my childhood interests. I grew up as a shy kid in Huntsville, AL, but I always had a passion for creative arts and sports. Now, I’ve combined all of my interests into a profession, and I love it!
I am a lifestyle and food influencer located in Memphis, TN with a passion for food, community, style, and so much more! I look forward to partnering with local and national brands that align with my vision. ! I dream big and seek to find joy daily.
“Carpe Diem!” xoxo, Ali
I’m seizing the journey of self-love, self-healing, and discovery through food, science, sustainable living, and creative expression.
I’m just getting back to me on this “Road to Joy”.
- Carpe Diem, Ali
Features
Meet Ali Manning
Why don't microwaves heat food evenly?
Memphis Health & Fitness Cover
Best Potatoes for Potato Salad
Keep it Cool and Look Cool at the FedEx St Jude Championship
Levitt Shell Professionals Board
Ready to Ride and Roll
Work & Life with Ali Manning
The Return of Rollerskating
Food Scientist Ali Manning
Limitless Sides to Outside
Reach out!
Feel free to reach out in reference to consulting services, teaching programs, skating updates, book readings or styling services. Email me directly at ali@umamifcc.com or send me a message on IG @aliglad_carpediem. I’d love to hear from you!
xoxo, Ali