Food Systems

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MU Extension is gathering input to better understand what matters most to Missourians — from health and jobs to education and more.

Please take 10 minutes to complete a short survey that asks a few questions about yourself and what matters most in your community. Responses will be anonymous. The data collected will directly inform MU Extension’s future programming and priorities.

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food system circle partnerships image

Food systems encompass all the people, processes and infrastructure involved in getting food from the farm to your table. Increasingly, Missourians are seeking information about how their food is produced, harvested, processed, distributed, marketed and accessed so that they can support their local communities. On this website, you — as a farmer or food business owner, consumer or community leader — will find information and resources to help you:

  • Create food systems that provide for profitable, thriving farms and businesses;
  • Steward our natural resources;
  • Ensure a safe and affordable food supply; and
  • Strengthen community relationships in rural and urban Missouri.

 

This MU Extension guide explores the concept of local food systems and gives an overview of the benefits of creating new opportunities within our community food systems.

Unprecedented study that highlights the role of hunger relief programs and the characteristics of households who receive support at food pantries.

Online tool that connects consumers with people growing and selling locally produced food.

Sign up to receive this monthly newsletter to receive news, resources, events, funding opportunities and more related to food systems and food and farm business.

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MU Extension hosts the Missouri Food Systems Network. The goal is to create strong and resilient community-based food systems that make positive economic impacts, enhance food access, and increase food security. Contact us to join our email list or share comments and questions.

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Apples in crate at a farmers market
Missouri EATs program

In partnership with communities across the state, Missouri EATs helps connect local stakeholders to build and strengthen their community’s food system.

Learn more about Missouri EATs

Resources

Center for Regenerative Agriculture

The Center for Regenerative Agriculture (CRA) at University of Missouri provides a collaborative home for research, education and extension work with the goals of building more integrated approaches to regenerative farming and developing food systems that are more resilient. Here is a list of online courses offered through CRA.

Missouri Grown Handbook – Missouri Department of Agriculture

A guide to creating and managing farmers’ markets.

Missouri Grown – MO Department of Agriculture

Missouri Grown works with farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses to promote local products to local consumers.

Heartland Regional Food Business Center

MU Extension partners with the Heartland Regional Food Business Center, a 5-state initiative dedicated to helping farm and food enterprises stat-up, grow, and connect with local and regional markets. Resources include business counseling and small grants.

Contact us: