News

Many USDA grant programs will likely hold a 2018 grant cycle

Published on April 11, 2017
Understanding Farm Bill programs can be a challenge. This article can help shed some light on the process.
A thank you to all who helped make FPIC a reality

Published on April 5, 2017
The Food Processing and Innovation Center will open in December 2017 thanks to the investment of time and money of countless individuals and organizations.
Celebrating the history of maple syrup

Published on March 20, 2017
Events and resources from MSU Extension and the Michigan Maple Syrup Association
Montague and Whitehall school meals include locally-grown potatoes

Published on February 20, 2017
This innovative farm-to-school program involves farmers, teachers and students.
Seasonal eating in the winter months

Published on January 24, 2017
Michigan residents can still enjoy locally produced foods when the snow is falling.
Solving food insecurity in Michigan

Published on January 19, 2017
A conversation with Phillip Knight, Executive Director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan.
Reducing food waste at home

Published on January 17, 2017
Living more sustainably in the New Year can be simple.
Unique partnerships to promote farm-to-school

Published on January 12, 2017
Four Muskegon county school districts collaborate on farm-to-school projects.
Finding the right place to grocery shop

Published on January 11, 2017
A survey of recent U.S. consumer grocery shopping habits reveals changes in the types of stores where we shop.
U.S. grocery buying and what does age and income have to do with it?

Published on January 11, 2017
Behaviors of U.S. consumers are shaping how and where we buy groceries according to current research by Mintel Group Ltd.
Competition for your grocery dollar drives changes in the U.S. grocery business

Published on January 11, 2017
Discount, dollar and drug stores have made big strides in the U.S. grocery business.
Ag Action 2017 of Southwest Michigan features Food Business Development

Published on December 21, 2016
Michigan State University Extension, MSU Product Center and Kalamazoo Valley Community College will host Starting a Licensed Food Business Ag Action in early 2017.
Food packaging – why is it designed that way?

Published on December 12, 2016
Food packaging serves important purposes beyond the look.
Support for veterans transitioning to farming increases

Published on December 9, 2016
Federal agencies, state land-grant universities and volunteer groups provide resources to veterans to help ease the change from the military to agricultural endeavors.
Commercial smoked fish need to be properly stored

Published on December 9, 2016
Proper time and temperature control and water phase salt are methods to keep smoked fish safe.
Long term unemployed hindered by databased hiring practices

Published on December 5, 2016
The first line of any business is their employees. They produce the product and make contact with the customer. Procuring and properly providing personnel with compensation consistent with their contribution cannot be overlooked.
Find new markets at the Great Lakes EXPO Meet the Buyers event

Published on November 30, 2016
Connecting with new buyers and markets for fruit and vegetable growers is made easier through the Meet the Buyers reception at the Great Lakes EXPO December 6.
Meet a Staff Member: Mackenzie Graham

Published on November 15, 2016
Mackenzie Graham is the new graduate secretary for the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences.
Brand loyalty in the age of the millenial

Published on November 11, 2016
Not only are the demographic shifting, but the number of new products continues to increase. Understanding brand loyalty is essential for producers and purveyors.
Wanted: Chestnut Growers

Published on November 7, 2016
Michigan State University is growing the chestnut industry, with demand far outpacing supply. READ