Search
Decorative photo banner with multiple nutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, leans protein, grains, seasonings and herbs.
Flavors of Health
Food & Health
Healthy Communities

Meet your Agent!

Annie is an NCH agent working 100% under Flavors of Health. Annie serves St. John the Baptist Parish and St. Charles Parish and is the point of contact for St. James Parish. Annie joined our team on February 1, 2026, and comes to us with a strong background as a clinical dietitian. Annie holds a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics from Nicholls State University, along with her completed dietetic internship. Annie is originally from St. John Parish and has deep roots in all of the river parish communities. Annie is excited to give back to the communities that have been such a big part of her life.

Contact: Annie Lambert

Email: ALambert@agcenter.lsu.edu

Office: (985) 497-3261

151 East 3rd St. Edgard, LA 70049

We are dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and quality of life to residents across the parish. Through evidence‑based nutrition education, hands‑on cooking demonstrations, youth enrichment, chronic disease prevention initiatives, and community partnerships, we empower individuals and families to make informed choices that support long-term health.

As part of the LSU AgCenter, our program delivers accessible, research‑driven resources tailored to the needs of our local community. We work closely with schools, senior centers, parish agencies, churches, food pantries, and other community organizations to ensure that health education reaches residents where they live, learn, work, and play.

Our Focus Areas

  • Nutrition Education: Classes and workshops for adults, families, and youth focused on healthy eating, budgeting, and meal planning.
  • Cooking & Food Demonstrations: Engaging, practical cooking experiences using nutritious, affordable ingredients.
  • Chronic Disease Prevention: Activities and lessons that support heart health, diabetes prevention, and overall wellness.
  • Community Engagement: Strengthening partnerships to identify local needs and develop solutions that support healthier environments.

Our Mission

  • As a vital part of the LSU AgCenter, our mission is to Educate, Innovate, and Improve the lives of Louisiana's citizens and beyond.

Who we Serve

  • All residents of St. John Parish—including youth, adults, seniors, families, and community organizations—who seek to build healthier habits and improve their overall well‑being.

July 2026

  • Shopping Smart on a Budget Presentation at the St. John Library in LaPlace on July 6th, 2026 at 5:30 pm.
  • Whole Body Wellness at the St. John the Baptist Parish Library in Reserve. Classes start for 10 am on July 8th, 2026Whole Body Wellness Poster featuring LSU AgCenter logo on the bottom right corner
  • Rouses Food Demo in Gramercy from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Presentation will be on July 29th at 1803 LA-3125, Gramercy, LA 70052.

August 2026

  • Whole Body Wellness at the St. John the Baptist Parish Library in Reserve. Classes start for 10 am on August 12th, 2026
  • We want to hear from you! Join the Senior Advisory Meeting at the St. John the Baptist Parish Library in Reserve starting at 11:30 am.
  • Rouses Food Demo in Gramercy from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Presentation will be on August 28th at 1803 LA-3125, Gramercy, LA 70052.

The LSU AgCenter provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. Find detailed information at www.lsuagcenter.com/eeo. Should you need any ADA accommodations, please contact Annie Lambert at 985-497-3261 no later than 10 days prior to the event.



August 2026: Ground Thyme

What Is Thyme?

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb in the mint family that originated in the Mediterranean region. For thousands of years, civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valued thyme for its many uses. Today, thyme remains one of the most popular herbs because of its pleasant aroma and distinctive flavor.

How Can You Use Thyme?

Thyme can be used fresh, dried, or ground to add flavor to many recipes. It pairs well with:

  • Vegetables
  • Poultry
  • Seafood
  • Soups and stews
  • Roasted meats
  • Herb blends and seasoning mixes

Because thyme has a strong flavor, a small amount goes a long way. Add it during cooking to enhance flavor or sprinkle it on dishes as a garnish.

How to Grow Thyme

Thyme is an easy herb for beginners to grow. It thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering once established. Allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings helps keep the plant healthy. Regular harvesting or trimming encourages new growth and promotes a productive plant throughout the growing season.

Recipe: Air Fryer Thyme Sweet Potato Fries

Servings

4 servings

Nutrition Information

  • 131 calories per serving
  • 165 mg sodium per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground thyme
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Cut sweet potatoes into fry-shaped sticks, about ¼-inch thick.
  2. Place sweet potato sticks in a large bowl.
  3. Add olive oil, ground thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the fries are tender and lightly browned around the edges.
  7. Serve and enjoy.

Flavor Tip

Use herbs and spices instead of excess salt to add great flavor while supporting better health.

Receive a Free Ground Thyme Sample

Free samples are available at all Libraries in St. John and St. Charles Parishes. Complete a brief survey using the QR code provided with your program materials to help us improve future educational programs.

About Flavors of Health

Flavors of Health is a community-focused nutrition and wellness program that provides classes and workshops designed to help individuals and families make healthier food and lifestyle choices.

The program combines evidence-based nutrition information with Louisiana's rich food traditions to address nutrition and health challenges facing our communities. Classes and educational resources are available both virtually and in person.

Contact Information

Annie Lambert
Nutrition & Community Health Agent
St. John and St. Charles Parishes

Phone: 985-497-3261
Email: alambert@agcenter.lsu.edu

Learn More

Visit the LSU AgCenter Flavors of Health website:

LSU AgCenter Flavors of Health

Top