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

Image of a man harvesting carrots.
Producer

Farmers/producers can learn more about community organizations and resources.

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Food Safety

Food Safety

Yegerlehener's On Farm Cheese Production
Food Safety

Learn more about resources related to food safety.

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Consumer

Consumer

Image of a man standing next to a stand of produce.
Consumer

Learn more about organizations and resources to help consumers navigate our food systems.

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Food Business and Entrepreneurship

Food Business and Entrepreneurship

Image of a bottle being filled with Maple Syrup
Food Business and Entrepreneurship

Learn more about resources related to Food Business and Entrepreneurship

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Featured Stories

A Purdue Extension educator walks with a man attending the Food is Medicine program in Indiana.
Teaching small steps to achieve healthier lives

When Terry Briscoe’s doctor recommended the Food Is Medicine program led by Purdue Extension Miami County, Briscoe was skeptical. He was picky about food, especially healthy food, but he decided to give the program a try.

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dead ash tree
Fast-Growing Trees for the Landscape

“I lost my prized shade tree! What can I plant that will grow fast and give me shade?”

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washington county cattlemen's association
Washington County Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation Clinic

The Washington County Cattlemen’s Association, Spring Mill Veterinary Service, and Purdue Extension – Washington County are hosting their annual Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation Clinic on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 beginning at 8:00 am in Salem, IN.

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washington county cattlemen's association
Washington County Cattlemens Association Annual Meeting

The Washington County Cattlemen’s Association is hosting their annual meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 6:30 pm in Salem, IN.

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Washington County Sheep Association
Washington County Sheep Association’s “A Taste of Lamb”

The Washington County Sheep Association is hosting their annual “A Taste of Lamb” event on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 6:30 pm in Salem, IN.

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Graphic showing a calculator, heads of wheat and paper money
Empowering Indiana Farmers: Grain Market Navigator Program Launches

Indiana farmers seeking to strengthen their grain marketing strategies during uncertain economic times now have a powerful resource: the Grain Market Navigator Program. This four-session Extension series is designed to provide the knowledge and tools farmers need to confidently navigate grain markets and make informed decisions.

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