With First Lady Michelle Obama hoping to help kids fight childhood obesity and a national movement toward eating healthier foods, one California culinary arts schools is focusing on a trend that has become more popular over the past several years - gourmet raw cuisine. The Living Light Culinary Institute in Mendocino, which opened in 1998, recently announced its 2012 curriculum, which includes 8 new training packages and bonuses for each session. Cherie Soria, founder and director of Living Light, said the courses help prepare teachers, professional and personal chefs, caterers and restaurant owners in the art and science of raw food "uncooking," a unique speciality that culinary students can add to their resume. "Whether you come to our school to improve your health, help create better eating habits for yourself or your family, or you want to begin a new career in the raw food industry, we're here to help you reach your personal and professional goals," Soria added. "We believe that all of our certified graduates need a foundation not only in gourmet raw vegan cuisine, but in how to teach raw foods culinary classes, nutrition and lifestyle to others." According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for chefs, head cooks and food preparation supervisors are expected to grow by 6% through the end of the decade. |