What We Do
“Food Systems are complex networks that include all the inputs and outputs associated with agricultural and food production and consumption. Food systems can vary substantially from place to place and over time, depending on location specific conditions.”
-United States Department of Agriculture
The Food Systems Coordinator supports small, diverse farms and value-added food businesses in Indiana. We are also involved in local food in terms of food safety, economics, and education. The Purdue Food Systems program uses an interdisciplinary approach to collaboratively create educational materials and workshops, while engaging community members to build local economies.
Contact Us
Sarah Hanson
Food Systems Coordinator
sspeedy@purdue.edu
615 W. State Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
765-494-8483
Producer
Producer
Farmers/producers can learn more about community organizations and resources.
View ResourcesFood Safety
Food Safety
Consumer
Consumer
Learn more about organizations and resources to help consumers navigate our food systems.
View ResourcesFood Business and Entrepreneurship
Food Business and Entrepreneurship
Learn more about resources related to Food Business and Entrepreneurship
View ResourcesFeatured Stories
September-October 2025 Newton County Extension Newsletter
Newsletter for September
I have occasionally received inquiries about dark green, circular bands in home lawns known as fairy rings. Occasionally, mushrooms appear from the ring.
You're Invited to Attend! This year's annual meeting will be held September 8, 2025 at 7pm at the Expo Hall on the Fairgrounds.
Nothing hits the spot on a summer day like a sweet slice of watermelon. This year’s harvest has been good in Indiana, but June and July’s hot and wet weather has created some challenges to getting produce from fields to fridges. Purdue experts have identified four rain-related diseases and deformities that might affect watermelons — and possibly pumpkins.
Fair recap and upcoming events