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
extension-post summary
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. This series will be held from 6:30-8:30 P.M. Eastern/5:30-7:30 P.M. Central on Feb. 17, Feb. 24, Mar. 3, and Mar. 10 in Putnam County and virtually.
If you are involved with alfalfa production, you may recall some springtime discussions and news articles in 2025 about alfalfa weevil and the potential issue of resistance.
Ohio County Health and Human Sciences, Agriculture, 4-H, and Youth Development monthly updates.
Purdue Extension invites farmers market vendors and managers to attend in-person training at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
The Washington County Sheep Association is hosting their annual meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:30 pm in Salem, IN.