Tag - Food Systems

Topic

young child walking in strawberry patch

Land-grant university research and Extension support resilience for youths, families and communities nationwide

Here are a few examples of that work:  The effectiveness of the Department of Defense’s Military Family Readiness System depends on well-trained Extension professionals with research-based tools and resources. Extension specialists in Kentucky contributed by providing personal finance training to military service providers so they can pass on knowledge, tools and resources that help military families prevent and navigate financial [...]

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Healthy foods and exercise equipment.

Land-grant university research and Extension strengthen nutrition, health and well-being

Chronic diseases are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in America. Research and Extension are fighting back. Over half of adults who participated in a Texas diabetes education program now choose healthier foods, monitor glucose levels during exercise, and control their diabetes to avoid interference with daily life. These changes could help participants save up to $94,021 in [...]

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Vegetables for sale at a farmers market stand.

Research and Extension ensure everyone has ample access to affordable, safe, nutritious food

Invasive pests damage crops, costing U.S. agriculture an estimated $30 billion every year. Pest management research and Extension stabilize the food supply chain. Researchers and Extension specialists in Oregon, developed cost-effective alternatives to glyphosate for herbicide-resistant Russian thistle control, protecting more than 30,000 acres of wheat and preventing over $1 million in yield losses so far.Oregon State University Extension Service. [...]

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A river bisects a field and forested riparian area

Research and Extension support resilient ecosystems

Recent studies and programs are conserving and protecting water used for drinking, fishing, irrigation and recreation.  Washington research helped establish 25 anaerobic digesters across the Pacific Northwest, turning dairy manure from more than 143,000 cows into biogas that provides more than 126 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy per year. Digesters decrease water quality risks associated with nutrient runoff from manure [...]

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Land-grant university research and Extension drive new biofuels, bioplastics, biochar and other bio-based products, strengthening rural economies, environmental health and energy security

Here are a few examples of that work:  Partnering with a private company, scientists in Pennsylvania roduced and tested biomaterials to replace single-use, petroleum-based plastics. New composites made from cellulose and starch have improved stability and barrier properties and have been developed into compostable food packaging and handling products; adhesives and foams for packaging, wood composites and construction materials; and [...]

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A drone flies over a field.

Research and Extension make agricultural systems more efficient, profitable, competitive and resilient

Strategies and tools for managing crop pests and diseases have increased productivity and profitability. For example: Extension units across the nation offer plant and pest diagnostic clinics. In New Mexico, free diagnoses saved producers an estimated $36,000 in testing fees in 2025, while also supporting biosecurity and export compliance. In Indiana, lab results and recommendations saved clients $890,000 in reduced [...]

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a young boy gardening

Growing healthy kids and strong communities through gardening in North Dakota

The children of North Dakota are the state’s most valuable resource, yet many face serious nutrition and physical activity challenges. Surveys show that 99% of high school students do not consume the recommended daily amount of vegetables, 32% are overweight or obese and 70% are not physically active daily. These trends threaten long-term health outcomes and highlight the need [...]

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Youths wearing life vests stand on a dock as they fill out forms while an adult explains the process

Extension introduces youths to career opportunities in agriculture and STEM

The United States is facing a dearth of skilled and educated workers across the agricultural industry. With many young people being several generations removed from agriculture within their families, and removed from where their food comes from, introducing youths to the variety of careers in agriculture and food systems and teaching related skills can build a new generation of [...]

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Multiple glass containers with orange and red fruit liquids in them sit on a table.

Researchers look to science for healthier, better tasting food and drink

Working to create better tasting and more wholesome foods via science means not only healthier consumers, but also more markets for producers and value-added opportunities for entrepreneurs. At land-grant universities across the country, food scientists work to make sure agricultural commodities and value-added products have the best taste, texture, aroma and appearance possible, without compromising — and sometimes even [...]

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a senior couple holds hands and looks at their land

Reducing farm stress

Farm stress management addresses the unique mental, emotional and financial pressures that agricultural producers face, helping them build resilience as they confront unpredictable weather, volatile markets and demanding workloads. Supporting farmers’ well‑being is critical not only for their personal health but also for the stability and sustainability of our food systems and rural communities. Extension plays an essential role [...]

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egg and avocado on toast

Online resource a ‘recipe’ for healthier, more affordable food choices

Many Michigan residents face barriers to healthy eating, including limited time, cooking knowledge and financial constraints. Having easy, affordable and nutritious meal ideas readily available can improve food security and support long-term health. However, people often struggle to find the practical resources to meet their needs.  In June 2025, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension launched a free online recipe website to [...]

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a scientist examines a test tube

Gut microbial research promotes better health, prevents chronic illness

Gut microbial research is important because the microbes living in the digestive system play a central role in human and animal health. They help regulate metabolism, support immune function and protect against harmful pathogens. Understanding the gut microbiome can reveal early markers of disease, improve nutritional strategies and guide the development of personalized medicine. Research also shows strong links [...]

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UME Agent, Shauna Henley, preparing mason jars for sterilization

Extension trainings keep Americans safe from foodborne illness

Foodborne illness is a widespread, costly public health concern in the United States. Each year, one in six Americans becomes sick from contaminated food, leading to hospitalizations, long-term health complications and even death. Pregnant women, the elderly, young children and people with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases are most at risk. Because food safety risks can occur at [...]

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microgreens

Enhancing the safety and nutrition of hydroponic produce

Hydroponic farming offers a sustainable way to grow safe, healthy food while using less water, land and energy. However, food safety concerns and limited strategies to boost nutritional quality remain key challenges. This project addresses these issues by developing clean, chemical‑free technologies — specifically laser and ultrasound treatments — to reduce harmful bacteria and enhance the nutritional value of [...]

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an Extension agent shows youths plants from a community garden

Encouraging health and wellness in U.S. youth through hands-on activities, education

One in five school-aged children nationally suffer from obesity, and regular physical activity and balanced diets can lead to improved focus, behavior, self-esteem and academic performance. Encouraging healthy behaviors at an early age fosters a value for physical activity, healthy eating and preventive habits. These healthy behaviors can lead to fewer chronic diseases, resulting in lower health care costs and a [...]

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peanuts

Wild peanut varieties source of disease resistance

Cultivated peanuts are plagued by diseases and pests, which make them expensive to grow as use of chemical controls account for more than 30% of the cost of production. Peanuts have little genetic variety, so there is a small pool of resistance genes to combat sickness in this plant.  Wild peanut species, on the other hand, have strong resistances to [...]

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two pairs of hands holding a bowl of tomatoes

Veterans grow food, community and connection through gardening initiative

Military veterans and their families often face challenges related to physical and mental well-being, social isolation and food insecurity. Michigan State University Extension’s Seeds in Action initiative helps veterans grow healthy food and build meaningful relationships – addressing these critical public health challenges. The Seeds in Action program provides seed packets and gardening education to help veterans grow their [...]

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soybeans

Using genetics for crop disease resistance

Pests of major crops, including wheat, soybean, potatoes, tomatoes and wine grapes, cost American producers billions in yield losses each year and raise prices for consumers. Pathogens are steadily overcoming current genetic sources of resistance, making continuing efforts to identify and incorporate new genetics critical to reduce losses to farmers and protect markets and food security. Here are a few [...]

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irrigation of a field

The relationship between irrigation and child nutrition

There is an assumption that irrigation automatically leads to better food security. But irrigation doesn’t consistently improve nutrition because regions with sufficient water often use irrigation for export-oriented cash crops, which are less likely to enter the local food system.   A major study had Vermont researchers partnering with other institutions to show that irrigation expansion in the Global South is linked [...]

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dairy cows in a barn

Supporting meat and dairy industries

Meat and dairy provide critical protein and a wide variety of other products for consumers and represent economically important industries across the country, not just for producers, but also for processors, groceries and restaurants. Research and Extension professionals at land-grant institutions support livestock and related industries in many ways through education on economically efficient production practices and research on [...]

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sorghum varieties

Research and development of water-resilient sorghum expands rural economic opportunities in the West

In water-limited agricultural landscapes of the West, sustaining food crops for beef and dairy has become increasingly challenging. Traditional feed crops such as maize and alfalfa require large amounts of water, threatening herds and pushing researchers to explore more resilient alternatives.  As a result, scientists with the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station are combining genetic improvements and precision agriculture to improve [...]

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a farmer planting

Recognizing regenerative ag champions

Small-scale farmers who use regenerative practices play an important role in local food systems. These farmers often operate in areas with limited access to fresh food and provide healthy options for their communities. Despite their contributions, they rarely receive recognition or support. Raising awareness of their work can help strengthen community-based food production and encourage practices that improve soil [...]

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Making aquaculture more productive, safe and economical

The seafood industry is economically vital and provides an important source of protein for the world. Challenges to aquaculture include inefficient production methods, expensive feed inputs and food safety. Land-grant efforts are protecting and promoting this booming industry. Here are a few examples of that work: As feed is the most expensive cost of aquaculture, researchers in Alabama are developing feeds [...]

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food stores waiting for delivery in a local church community food bank

Food Recovery relieves food waste in Rhode Island

In 2024, more than one-third of Rhode Island households struggled to afford food. While food pantries served over 84,000 people each month, food remained the largest contributor to landfill waste, generating potent methane emissions and shortening the life of the state’s only landfill. In response, Food Recovery for Rhode Island mobilized trained volunteers and community partners to recover and [...]

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a graphic of 4 world maps showing the percentage change in 4 different crop types: maize, soybeans, sorghum, and wheat

Even when farmers adapt to extreme weather, crop losses continue

A first-of-its-kind study analyzed the real-life measures that farmers worldwide are taking to combat reduced yields due to higher temperatures, drought conditions and other extreme weather. The findings indicate that even as they try to adapt to changing conditions, farmers are still experiencing a decline in agricultural productivity. The steepest losses are occurring at the extremes of the agricultural economy, [...]

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