• by Danielle Oster , 2 hours ago

PepsiCo is sponsoring a culinary event during Super Bowl weekend featuring celebrity chefs, which supports an initiative to combat student hunger.

Feb. 7 ‘s “Taste of the NFL”  spotlights more than 20 local and national chefs, led by hosts that include TV personalities and authors Carla Hall and Andrew Zimmern, and guest appearances by the likes of Cat Cora and Tyler Florence. The event showcases a diverse array of Bay Area cuisine, with a focus on  restaurants from the area.

In addition to the culinary experience, the event will include exclusive autograph sessions with NFL legends and greats. More than 30 retired NFL stars will be attending, including Doug Flutie, Kyle Rudolph, Bryant Young, and Mark "Mighty Mouse" McMillian, who will also represent his own Grillin' McMillian brand.

All proceeds from "Taste of the NFL” support nonprofit organization GenYouth’s efforts to combat student food insecurity.

PepsiCo’s Lay’s brand is also sponsoring a “Taste of the NFL” gift bag given to all attendees. Other sponsors for the event include Best Food, Hellman’s, Peet’s Coffee, and PNC Bank.

In addition, PepsiCo Foundation will award community impact grants to local nonprofit organizations addressing the issue of food insecurity in the Bay Area.

“Taste of the NFL is one of the most exciting traditions of Super Bowl weekend, bringing together the best of football and food for a purpose that truly matters," Peter O'Reilly, NFL executive vice president of events, international, and club business, said in a press release, describing the San Francisco Bay area as “a region known for its incredible culinary scene."

In a statement, PepsiCo Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman Steven Williams said the event “demonstrates how we turn purpose into meaningful action. Through this program and the work of the PepsiCo Foundation, we can help ensure that students have consistent access to nutritious meals and the resources they need to thrive.”