Sustainable Agriculture
Here’s how cows can ‘go green’
Did you know cattle can play a positive role in climate change? Farmers and ranchers are proactively working to reduce methane output. Here’s how...
Sustainable Agriculture
Examining innovations to our food system via scientific advancements, public policy and government programs, and technologies from producers, processors, and CPG companies
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Witnessing Helene’s Wrath
Hurricane Helene's destructive path shows the vulnerability of our food system to extreme weather conditions – and the resiliency of farmers and others across the food chain to rise to the challenges they create.
Farmers Rise to Climate Challenges
Does climate change pose a serious threat to our global food security? Harvest-time data suggests our global food system is maintaining abundant supplies of the cornerstone commodities we rely on – with adverse conditions in some parts of the world offset by continuing increases in farm productivity.
Climate Debate Shaped by Tractor Power
The global farming community is playing an increasingly active role in shaping the future of aggressive efforts to address climate change. And U.S lawmakers are watching the trend closely...
Farm Bill Remains on Life Support
Most of us don't know it, but the U.S. Farm Bill governs how our food system operates...from the dirt to our dinner plates. Renewal of the bill was due last year, and now it looks like yet another one-year extension may be in the works. So what’s the problem? And why should we care?
Will Consumers Pay to Go Green?
“Green” policies designed to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels are a good thing, right? Yes, but maybe not as much of a good thing as you might think – especially if you’re a consumer already tired of high energy costs and historic food inflation.
Can We Eat to Improve the Climate?
We all care about the environment. Many people have even changed their diets, making “climate-conscious” food choices that we believe have a smaller carbon footprint. But how do we know for sure? To find out, we started with a simple question: What requires the greatest use of fossil fuels: making a loaf of sourdough bread, raising a chicken, or growing a tomato? The answers we found surprised us – and may surprise you, too.
Digging In: Regenerative Ranching
In this podcast, we talk with Greg Putnam, the co-founder, operator, and rancher of Little Belt Cattle Company. This beautiful ranch is a veteran-owned and operated first-generation business dedicated to raising high-quality cattle. Greg's company uses regenerative ranching practices to protect our natural resources and reduce any environmental impact.
Ag Scorecard Sets Stage for Lively 2024
We're exploring not only what happened in food & ag across the globe, but also those who gained and those who suffered from these events. Ultimately, why we all should care about our ever-evolving food system.
D2D Digs into the Future of Biofuels
In this episode, we're speaking with Colin Murphy, low-carbon fuel expert at UC Davis. Listen in as he bridges the gap between cutting-edge sustainable fuel science and the day-to-day challenges of real-world policymaking.
Will reducing beef save our planet?
At the recent COP28 Climate Summit, the UN stated that wealthy nations should reduce red meat and dairy to avert a global health crisis. But aren't ranchers and dairy farmers proactively reducing its effects already?
Ag careers grow beyond the farm
The food and agricultural sector is often overlooked as a fertile source of rewarding jobs and careers. Whatever the personality type, whatever the ambition… our agricultural system has something for virtually everyone.
Expert Take on Defining ‘Sustainability’
Sustainability has become almost a buzzword across every segment of our modern world. But where do we really stand in turning the idea of sustainability into meaningful reality? For answers we turn to a true expert on all things sustainability...
How Bad is RoundUp? Expert explains
On this episode of Digging In, we speak with Dr. Ari Novy, CEO & President of the San Diego Botanic Garden and plant biologist, about the ever-controversial pesticide, glyphosate.
Digging In with Easy Energy
This week's podcast features Easy Energy Systems and how its systems reduce food waste. Tune in...it's surely time not wasted.
Oakridge Dairy Overcomes Industry Challenges
Oakridge Dairy thrives amidst changing consumer preferences and environmental regulations. How can other farms use tech and regenerative ag practices to boost efficiency?
Dirty Tactics from EWG’s Dirty Dozen
EWG recently released its annual “Dirty Dozen” produce list, which stokes fears of eating produce with pesticide residues...as if we don't already have enough to fear with COVID. But is EWG right? Or do the benefits of eating produce to maintain our health far outweigh these concerns?
Food Safety at Farmers’ Markets
Consumers flock to seasonal farmers’ markets to buy fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meat from local farmers. What food safety regulation applies to the food there? The same as or different than the fruits and vegetables we buy at the grocery store?
Digging in: Dancing Vineyard’s Cynthia & Lauren Russell
Sit down with a glass of wine and listen to Lucy's conversation with Cynthia and Lauren, a mother-daughter team that purchased land to start their own vineyard.
Digging in with FFA’s Emily Hoyt
In this week's podcast, we're talking with Missouri State FFA Secretary Hoyt about her involvement in the Future Farmers of America's program and her passion to educate young children about our food system. Check it out!
Soil Science with FFA’s Elszy
Listen in as we talk with Brennan about his involvement in the Future Farmers of America program and his award-winning research on plant and soil sciences.
New England Farm Connects Soil to Health
Steve McMenamin, manager of Versailles Farms in Connecticut, operates at the forefront of regenerative agriculture. His farm's mission? To grow food for the community with an emphasis on nutrient density, flavor, and good digestion.
Digging In: Droughts Drive Smart Water Use
We talk with Iowa farmer Curt Mether and Farm Journal’s Nate Birt on how recurrent droughts have driven renewed attention to smart water use and how these farmers carefully prepare.
Garland’s Letter from Atlanta
Ever wonder what farmers do when they aren’t planting, tending or harvesting their crops? D2D wanted to find out, so we attended a winter conference to learn a few new things. And pick up a side of gratitude just in time for the holidays, too.
Feeding the World while Healing the Planet
The Nature Conservancy's Global Regenerative Food Systems Director, Saswati Bora, provides a new way of thinking about solving humanitarian, climate and biodiversity crises with the introduction of Foodscapes.
Newtrient’s Carbon Quest
This Digging In episode explores finding a sustainable way to provide all the food we need and while protecting our environment. Listen in as Newtrient's founders provide an upbeat overview of the ag world’s efforts to combat climate change.
Anybody Want a Job in Ag?
Finding the workers needed to make our modern food system function is a major challenge across our supply chain. And now we have a perfect storm of labor issues affecting us all.
The Ins & Outs of Climate-Conscious Eating
Think you know what climate-conscious eating looks like? Think again. Its complexities extend far and wide, from effects on soil, water use, and farming practices, to just name a few...
Fertilizer Restrictions’ Unintended Consequences
Want to cut greenhouse gases? Mandate less fertilizer use...right? Farmers and others ask if we know what that really means for our food security. Beware the perils of unintended consequences.
We’re only as healthy as our soil
A new study concludes that soil quality via regenerative agriculture is the key to nutritious food.
Flying the friendly skies on green fuel
What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel? Where is it going to come from? And what does it mean for our food and agriculture system? We look at this complex issue fueling the aviation industry and what it means for you.
Can genetically engineered salmon save the world?
AquaBounty is known for its development of the first genetically engineered salmon. Now that the AquAdvantage Salmon has finally hit the market, we want to see where they are now.
FFA’s Kayla Rossi: Responsibly Managing Livestock
Supporting ag's future is paramount to feeding a growing population. This requires advancements from our farmers and scientists. FFA's Kayla Rossi contributes to this endeavor with her family's responsibly managed livestock operation.
Jupiter Ridge: Regenerative Stewards of the Land
Will Lorentzen and Adrian White of Jupiter Ridge Farm detail their experience with regeneratively-grown farming practices in Iowa. Their long-term objectives can shape our understanding of what regenerative ag really looks like.
Trading Carbon and Talking Plants
Carbon trading can enable farmers to sequester carbon, sell a ton of carbon credit on the market for consumers, and enable companies to purchase as credits. But how does this happen?
We’ve got questions for you, 2022…
Governments and companies are changing the way we address food security, the environment, and consumer health. At D2D, we have covered some of these subjects previously but are now looking harder at how the future will be shaped by those who grow, trade, process, and consume food.
FFA’s Nicholas Mello: The Importance of Seed Science
In partnership with the Future Farmers of America, we will be highlighting a series of finalists from 2020 and 2021 to share their stories and passions. Today, read about Nicholas Mello of California and his hybrid corn seed experimentation.
How Is Ag Helping Battle Climate Change?
Despite ag's substantial carbon footprint, cropland can offset greenhouse gases and regenerate healthy soil. Few if any other sectors have the opportunity to help battle climate change while reducing costs, improving yields, and boosting farm profits.
Toigo’s Transition from Tomatoes to Cannabis
Mark Toigo had to pivot his multi-generational farm when low-cost tomatoes flooded the organic market. Converting his tomato crops to cannabis saved his struggling farm, and perhaps a few lives along the way...
Want to Save the Planet? ‘Break Boundaries’ at Home
Netflix documentary, Breaking Boundaries, has been criticized as another over-the-top and scary climate change film. But at its core, the message is simple – 'Be the Earth's Conscience.' But what does that mean, and how can I personally make a difference?
Five Reasons Why I Started Using Conservation Practices On My Farm
This article was written by Keith Mears, who farms with his family near Delphi, Indiana, and is a Conservation Steward with America’s Conservation Ag Movement.
The Gabels: From Wall Street to little Grassy Creek
Farming can be far more than a profession or a bottom line. Meet two very special people who have traded the traditional model of career success for something they find even more rewarding. Welcome to little Grassy Creek Farm.
Serving Up Sustainability at Fast Food Restaurants
Fast-food chains have started to go public with their sustainability initiatives, but how are these efforts regulated? And are we willing to pay more for “greener” fast food? Experts in the space help us take a bite out of this topic.
What do probiotics have to do with it? Why soil health matters.
TNC's Renée Vassilos details how soil microbiomes drive healthy environmental ecosystems to increase productivity and profitability. Here are five innovative companies leading the way in this field...
Can Rural America Lead in AgTech?
Lucy spoke to Pennsylvanian business leaders and politicians about rural America leading the way for the future of agricultural innovations. Here is her speech...
Keeping Score on Biden’s Ag Initiatives
Six months into the Biden Administration, Washington claims a mixed scorecard of fulfilling the promises made during the 2020 campaign. Let’s take a look at some of the food and ag-related hits and misses recorded so far.
5 Ways to Know if Your Seafood is Sustainable
Have you seen Netflix’s ‘Seaspiracy?’ It made us wonder if we can trust our seafood. Good news is we can – it just made take a little bit more work.
5 Things ‘Seaspiracy’ taught me about Seafood
Aside from its distorted facts and questionable agenda, the Netflix film, 'Seaspiracy', smartly spotlights glaring issues in the sustainable seafood industry. However, options exist that support a healthy seafood system -- we just need to ask the right questions.
7 Things to Know about Indoor Farming
There have been some big headlines lately regarding vertical farming. What is vertical farming, and what do we need to know about it?
Food Transparency Starts With Farming’s Digital Transition
A lack of transparency into food production is one of the fastest-rising concerns among U.S. consumers. But building out the surprisingly complex web of information from the grocery store shelf to farmgate is complicated...at best. Can it be done?
Saving Our Soil…One Billion Microbes at a Time
Despite their meager size, soil microbes have a significant impact on the health of plants, animals, and our planet. Innovative microbial technologies have been found to increase soil fertility and plant health, as well as understanding our own needs and those of the Earth's.
5 Regenerative Ag Trends for Earth Day
Earth Day presents an annual opportunity to spotlight how important this big, blue ball is to the world’s farmers, ranchers, and growers who depend on its natural resources to grow the food, fuel, and fiber that powers our lives.
Climate-Smart Farming Paves the Way Toward Carbon Negative
AgMission, a partnership among two farm-related organizations, has the goal to reduce agriculture’s carbon footprint and even make farming carbon-negative. And, in the process, they might also help us find products promoting sustainability.
Regenerative Ag in Your Own Backyard
To an expanding array of people from the inner city to suburbia and beyond, the ideas behind the regenerative ag movement are changing our thinking about the role we play in sustaining our food system...and the health of our environment.
Foster Brothers Farm: Covering Good Ground
Farmers like Bob Foster of Foster Brothers Farms in Vermont, increase their soil's health by implementing cover crops and no-till farming into their cultivation practices. But these strategies go on to improve global health, too...
Lucy Stitzer x Farm Journal: Soil, Plant & Human Health
D2D's founder talks with Trust in Food's Nate Birt about Regenerative Ag's rapid evolution and its power to restore health.
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Soil
When many of us think of soil, we think of dirt. But, soil is so much more than just dirt. Soil gives life to all of the food we eat. Let’s get to know our soil a little better.
Building a Sustainable U.S. Beef System
Sasha Gennet of The Nature Conservancy shares her experience implementing livestock grazing practices with farmers to benefit the local ecosystem's soil, water, and biodiversity, leading to healthier cattle and a healthier environment.
Q&A with FFA’s Tyler Gardner
Future Farmers of America member, Tyler Gardner, is one hard-working college student. His work at his family’s cranberry marsh has evolved his mission to produce healthy and sustainable food for generations to come.
Regenerative Ag: The New ‘Sustainable’
Regenerative agriculture is a system of farming practices that promises to reduce the impact of carbon emissions. Each farming operation differs not only in the application of these practices but in their measurement process.
5 Benefits of GMOs
GMOs are one of the most controversial topics in mainstream culture, even though they are proven to have many benefits for our farmers, consumers, and the environment.
Will New Wheat and Barley Genomes Help Feed the World?
Scientists have discovered a new genetic variation in both barley and wheat through genetic sequencing. This global effort to breed higher-yielding crops can help feed a growing population.
Meeting Demand: A New Type of Salmon
There's a new breed of salmon that requires less food and water, takes less time to grow, and supports the rural American economy all while having the same health benefits as farmed or wild-caught salmon. Will you buy it?
Behind the Scenes with a Local Beef Farmer
Dave and Holly Albert, owners of Misty Mountain Farms, raise cattle for their local Pennsylvanian market. Their operation runs on a strong value system, adherence to conservation, continued profitability, and consumer relationships.
Epicor: Strengthening our Immune Response
As we approach winter, we're pursuing ways to strengthen our immune system. Some of us have recently added EpiCor, a postbiotic, to our balanced diets and have felt its benefits. Let's take a closer look at this supplement...
Farmer & Rancher Election Survey Results
D2D set out with a goal to better understand the issues affecting American farmers - their concerns, hopes, and thoughts about the next four years. Here are our results...
Trump vs. Biden: Comparing Ag Platforms
Election Day is almost here. So where do Trump and Biden stand on American food and agriculture? We compare the candidates' views on the major issues affecting farmers and ranchers today.
Making the Case for Sustainable Aquaculture
More than half the fish we eat comes from fish farms. But some countries' farms operate with little to no health or safety standards and zero traceability. With our rising need for fish, are we willing to pay more for high quality and transparent aquaculture production?
5G’s Revolution: Will Ag be Ready?
5G - the new frontier in technology. For ag, 5G will result in a smarter, more efficient, and more transparent supply chain. So what are some of the technologies that will benefit? And will the broadband infrastructure in rural farmland areas be ready for the leap?
SOS: Save Our Soil
Today, we are more aware and proactive about soil erosion than ever before. Rumor has it that we only have 60 years of soil left. Is this true? If so, it is the same as losing 30 soccer fields of soil every minute. How is this possible?
What is Soil?
We live in a world with a growing population where understanding the importance of vital elements has never been more necessary. Understanding all that sustains us, and keeps us healthy, is critical to our survival. At the root of that is soil.
Combating Desertification & Land Degradation
On June 17th of each year, people concerned about the scourge of desertification, land degradation, and drought work to raise awareness and promote solutions to these important issues. Think this day may not pertain to you? Think again...
Demanding Equality: Women Farmers in Africa
These women farmers in Africa not only challenge the status quo, but have dramatically improved their local economies...and beyond.
A Farmer’s Life on the U.S.-Mexico Border
Farmers, ranchers, and the industry at large depend on an immigrant workforce to help with food production every year. But how can we continue to fortify an agricultural workforce while protecting farmers at the border?
Bettering Farms in Zimbabwe…and Beyond
Nyasha Mudukuti of Cornell's Alliance for Science reveals the challenges facing her family's farm in Zimbabwe, and how her plight to save African smallholder farms hangs on educating farmers about ag biotechnology.
Jack Bobo: How We Choose Our Food
Especially during chaotic times like this, we rely on Jack Bobo's insights into our behaviors as food consumers to educate us and help us make better decisions. While we search our supermarket for a new "superfood" to cure us or a "natural" product to make us feel healthier, Jack is searching for the answers to why our brains want us to behave this way and what we can do to better evaluate our purchasing decisions.
Cork & Cow: FFA Spotlight on Emily Matzke
As we celebrate International Women's Day this week, we would like to introduce FFA member, Emily Matzke. Emily is developing a business plan to tie her love of ag and local food products together to create a unique dairy product!
People and Nature: Thriving Together in the African Grasslands
Michael Doane of The Nature Conservancy returns to Kenya to witness the Northern Rangelands Trust program's success in restoring wildlife while preparing tribal pastoralists and their cattle for a fruitful livelihood.
Can Technology Save Urban Farming?
With a growing population and demand for sustainability, innovations in ag are more crucial than ever. Let’s see how pioneers in indoor ag are developing technologies that could prove impactful for our growing needs.
Ag in the Classroom: FFA Spotlight on Lauren LaGrande
Lauren LaGrande, an exemplary member of Future Farmers of America, is on a mission to educate future generations about something that connects all of us – where our food comes from. Here is her story from her point of view...
D2D’s “Nice List” for the Holidays
Here's our "nice list" of helpful posts to keep you healthy, happy and in-the-know through the holidays and into the new year. Everything from delicious, low sugar recipes to global trade and alternative proteins, we've got you covered!
2 Trade Deals and Plant Food in a Pear Tree: Top News in 2019
2019 has been a wild ride! News about our food and how we get it – from dirt to dinner – have had us on the edge of our seats...
Soil Health: A Personal Chronology of a Global Paradigm Shift
Tillage in croplands is one of the primary drivers of land degradation, but it doesn’t need to be. Join The Nature Conservancy's Michael Doane as he experiences zero-tillage cropping systems with farmers in India, and beyond.
Coffee: Uniting Our Worlds
Our morning brew is so much more than just another beverage! Each cup connects us with farmers in the rainforests and mountains, highlighting the importance of sustainable farming. To bring our cup of joe to life, we introduce sustainability-rated Colombian coffee producer, Finca El Ocaso.
The Dirt to Dinner Team: Giving Thanks
The D2D Team has a lot to feel grateful for this holiday season! Here are a few things that we'll be giving thanks to this year as we celebrate with our family and friends.
Our Agricultural Extension Service: From Gardening to Food Safety
Our agricultural extension services program is designed to teach people not just how to farm productively, but how we all can benefit, from gardening to food safety practices. And just in time for a few tips before Thanksgiving!
Land Degradation: The History Lesson We Are Still Learning
While the Dust Bowl era is seen as a historical American experience, the reality is different. Agricultural lands around the world continue to degrade. The Nature Conservancy's Michael Doane explores this topic in an ongoing series.
Are GMOs Bad for the Environment?
On the contrary. In fact, here's a different way to spell the word green: GE – Genetic Engineering. GE technology includes genetically modified organisms, which some critics claim harm the environment. But in reality, GMOs help farmers use pesticides responsibly, conserve water and increase soil health while increasing their crop yield.
Packing Social Concerns in the Lunchbox
As a scientist and mom of three young kids, back to school to Dr. Evanega means preparing her kids' lunches with their tastes - and global considerations - in mind.
What Are Dead Zones…and is Ag to Blame?
Each year, “dead zones” – large bodies of water lacking the oxygen needed to support aquatic life - appear all around the world. This summer’s flooding in the Midwest has made it worse. How does this happen? And what can we do?
On the Farm & In the Books: FFA Spotlight on Katherine Smith
Katherine Smith, a Future Farmers of America member, strives to help smallholder farmers achieve profitability through financial stability and process improvement, and her mission is to make that happen. Here's her story...
Can GMOs Make Me Sick?
Concerned if GMOs are harmful to your health? We dug into exactly what happens in our bodies when we eat food that has been grown with a GMO.
Fair Oaks Farms: Taking Responsibility
Fair Oaks Farms has come under scrutiny for inhumane treatment to its calves. Find out how the farm's CEO has taken responsibility to better the operations of the farm, as well as the industry as a whole.
Temple Grandin’s Advice to Fair Oaks Farms
Animal welfare expert Temple Grandin, Ph.D. praised the Fair Oaks Farms' response to the videos showing animal cruelty and suggested some next steps for Fair Oaks to take in a recent post on Meat + Poultry.
The Farm Babe: An Ag Love Story
This is the story of the agricultural advocate, Michelle Miller, or better known as "The Farm Babe". D2D learns first-hand about Michelle's journey from the big city to a rural farm in Iowa, and how it completely changed her views on our food system.
What’s Happening in Ag?
So much is going on along the path from dirt to dinner that it’s almost impossible to keep up with all the newsworthy and significant developments on the farm. From domestic and foreign markets to changing food trends to exciting innovations food production, to policies and regulations affecting our food system, and more. So let’s take a quick look at the headlines catching our eyes recently.
GMOs are Confusing: A Recipe for Understanding
Consumers continue to be confused about GMOs. What if we told you that enhancing your banana bread recipe with additional nutrients is similar in concept to adding a gene to a plant?
From the Farm Babe: Who is Dirt-to-Dinner?
Dirt-to-Dinner recently visited Michelle Miller, one of our favorite social media collaborators and the voice behind The Farm Babe. Here, Michelle details a bit of the story behind Dirt-to-Dinner and sheds some light on the importance of partnering with like-minded “Agvocates.”
Palm Oil: In Pursuit of Sustainability
Every day, consumers are unwittingly caught in a catch-22. Palm oil, an ingredient in many of the foods we eat and products we use daily, has a reputation for deforestation and habitat destruction. But there is a solution: growing it sustainably.
Waste Not, Want Not: Eat Beer and Drink Sandwiches!
Drink Sandwiches? Eat Beer? Beer manufacturers and breweries are turning spent grains into bread, animal feed and even energy and compost. They are also taking bread and turning it into beer! The efforts of the beer industry point to significant progress in the battle against food waste.
Rallying for our Flooded Farmers
The ongoing flooding in Nebraska and Iowa has pushed many over the edge, making the next harvest an impossibility for some. Many have lost their homes, their farms, and their livelihood. Here is how you can help.
The Green New Deal: Where’s the Beef?
The Green New Deal calls on the U.S. to take a leading role in reducing emissions through “economic transformation.” The references to farming and agriculture’s footprint have generated a lot of discussion among the farming community.
Preparing for Pests: A Gardener’s Guide
What is the difference between organic and conventional pesticides? We’ve read about pesticides in our cereal, tea, and food, but what about our natural home garden? Organic pesticides are not always the best option for efficacy and the local ecosystem.
D2D On the Farm: The Row We Hoe
As consumers crave locally grown fruits, vegetables, eggs, and meat, local farms answer the call. But maintaining a farm and being profitable is a challenge. D2D visits with 4th generation Hindinger Farm in Hamden, Connecticut.
What’s in a name? In this case, quite a bit.
We need protein as part of a healthy diet— and many of us turn to meat as a source. Satisfying the projected growth in worldwide protein demand is a complicated task and doesn’t lack for controversy. Cell-based meat, an innovative protein, is being accepted as a viable component of a healthy, robust protein source. But what should we call it?
California Megafires and the Effects on Agriculture
Wildfires are devastating, not only to the families whose homes are demolished but also to the land and farmers supplying our fruits, vegetables, wine grapes and cattle for dairy and meat production.
Hemp, Hemp Hooray!
You can eat it, use it as a bag, rub it on your skin, swing from it, and wear it as a pair of jeans. Hemp can be processed into food, textiles, health and body care products, paper, industrial products, and building materials. The U.S. has just legalized the production of this versatile crop in the 2018 Farm Bill.
Why Should We Care About Bees?
Do you think of bees when you walk through the produce aisle? Probably not! But without them, we would not have the plentiful and endless variety of foods we enjoy daily. Unfortunately, the livelihood of bees is being threatened by poor pesticide management. The bees need our help.
Animal Antibiotics: Should We Be Concerned?
Two million: The population in New Mexico. Two million: The number of people, each year, who get an antibiotic-resistant infection. Now imagine the entire state of New Mexico infected with strains of bacteria unaffected by antibiotics. How does this happen? Is it coming from our food?
In the News: Glyphosate (again)
The science tells us that glyphosate is safe to use as directed. Farmers use it because it enables them to use less herbicide and practice no-till farming, which is beneficial for soil health. The FDA has determined that any pesticide residues on our food are in minuscule amounts and not harmful, as EWG claims in the case of Cheerios. Why is glyphosate still making headlines as a “toxin” in our food?
Feeding the World: One Byte at a Time
This week, the Dirt-to-Dinner team attended the Cornell Initiative for Digital Agriculture at the University in Ithaca, New York. The research that is underway in this space is – and will be – revolutionary. It will touch the lives of consumers every single day. Here’s how…
CO2: The Greatest Fertilizer of All
More CO2 in the atmosphere means stronger, healthier plants. Yes, it is true, carbon dioxide is the perfect fertilizer for all things green. It helps the food we grow withstand drought and increases the yield per acre. Will rising CO2 put our food at risk?
What’s the Difference between GMOs & CRISPR?
After our post on EU and CRISPR last week, the Dirt-to-Dinner team received requests to simplify the difference between GMO and CRISPR technology. Here is a quick summary to help you differentiate between the two.
In the News: European Court Hinders CRISPR Technology
The European Court of Justice recently ruled that CRISPR technology must undergo the same extensive regulatory approval process as GMOs. This legislation will significantly delay CRISPR’s application in EU farming and will hinder the development of better crops for a growing world.
Is Glyphosate Safe?
Glyphosate and its popular product, Roundup®, is the most widely used weed killer in the world. Yet, it has come under intense scrutiny lately in the courts, and headlines are claiming there are harmful glyphosate residues in some of our favorite foods including Cheerios™. What is glyphosate, why is it used, and what does science say about its safety?
Carbon Dioxide – The Dance of Life
Without carbon and carbon dioxide we would have unpleasantly cold temperatures, no plants to eat, and no trees to keep the earth in balance.
How will CRISPR impact our food?
CRISPR-Cas9 will soon surpass GMOs as the most influential gene editing technology for food production. Let’s explore how this technology will change the way farmers grow their crops and enhance the food we eat today.
Soil Microbes in the Spotlight
Getting the most out of soil is a goal of small and big farmers alike. As they face the challenges of pests and diseases or regulatory pressure to use less water and less fertilizer, farmers are turning to companies who can provide microbial soil solutions to help them achieve crop health and environmental sustainability.
There Is No Such Thing As A Dirty Vegetable
Have you heard the buzz about the dirty dozen? These fruits and veggies have gotten a bad reputation and consumers are being told to buy them only when organically grown. But is this fear justified? Let’s get down to business and discuss pesticide residues.
D2D on the Farm: Support Local Farms
Consumers love buying locally grown produce. But these days, it seems consumers are also dictating how farmers should grow their crops. This is influencing how farmers do their job and keeps them from using beneficial farming technologies that can provide healthy food, be kind to the environment, and help them make a living.
In the News: Bill Gates gives GMOs a vote of confidence
Bill Gates has publicly announced his support of GMO technology to raise awareness and highlight the benefits for a growing population.
D2D on the Farm: America’s Salad Bowl
When was the last time you sat down and looked at your salad and wondered where the produce came from or how it was grown? Did you know that 80% of the leafy greens and berries grown in the U.S. during the spring, summer, and fall come from the same region? Join D2D as we explore the farms of Salinas Valley, CA!
Sustainable Ag Series: Farmers
What does sustainability mean to farmers? How do farmers successfully farm their land in a sustainable manner? How do their efforts affect you, the food you eat every day, and the environment we live in?
Sustainable Ag Series: Governments
What does sustainability mean to government regulators? How do local or national governments work with NGOs, farmers, corporations and consumers to affect agricultural sustainability and policy? Let’s continue our investigation into agricultural sustainability and all that it encompasses…
Sustainable Ag Series: Corporations
What does sustainable agriculture mean to big corporations? Do corporations reach across the aisle to government regulators, NGOs, farmers, and consumers to achieve their goals? And how does that affect you and the environment?
Sustainable Ag Series: NGOs
What is sustainability? How do non-government organizations (NGOs), corporations, governments, farmers, and consumers address sustainability? And how does this affect you, your food, and the environment?
Let’s Byte into Ag
There’s an increasingly widespread— and extremely important— ingredient in our global food system…It’s not a new nutrient. Not a preservative. Not a new flavoring. Not a new GMO.
Water, Water…Everywhere?
The Earth’s water supply is stressed, and farmers use a lot of water to grow crops. What are some of the technologies available to help them grow more food with less water?
Soil: It is much more than Dirt
Have you ever thought about the soil that lies beneath your feet? Soil is responsible for 95% of the food we eat and it supports life on Earth in many different ways. But what exactly is healthy soil and why is it so important?
When is “Science” Truly Science?
The phrase “new research shows…” might not always give the most dependable information. In this age, we are bombarded with endless information about health-related research findings. But how do you know if the research is based on sound science?
Such a Waste!
What if you bought three bananas and threw one away every day? Approximately one-third of global food is wasted every year. If all of us reduced our food waste, we can help the global fight to feed a hungry and growing population. We can also preserve our natural resources and protect our environment.
Farming from the Thermosphere
With the advancement of drone and satellite technology, “precision farming” is taking on a whole new dimension. These technologies help farmers monitor their crops, track animal health, protect the environment, and save resources.
What is RoundUp?
Glyphosate, or “Roundup” as it is more commonly called, is used around home gardens and agriculture, and specifically is the herbicide used on genetically modified (GM) crops. Is the product that has been deemed safe for 40 years really dangerous to our health?
CRISPR: An Innovative Technology in Ag
What do a wooly mammoth, curing cancer, and an anti-browning mushroom have in common? CRISPR: a gene editing technology that has the ability to edit any living being by altering a gene. Let’s see how CRISPR has the capacity to enhance our agricultural food supply system.
NYT: Reporting Based on Science?
The New York Times recently published the article "Doubts about the Promised Bounty of Genetically Modified Crops" which addresses the controversy surrounding the benefits of GM crops. Author Danny Hakim claims his “extensive examination” of the data provides evidence that genetically modified (GM) or engineered (GE) crops have not lived up to their most basic promises that they: 1) increased crop yields and 2) reduced overall chemical pesticide usage.
The Challenges of Indoor Farming
There are many benefits to indoor farming including reducing environmental stress, economic prosperity, and year-round produce availability. So why hasn’t more growing moved indoors? What are the challenges behind this new type of farming?
What’s the Catch?
The fish on our plate often comes from all over the world, but we really have no knowledge of exactly where the fish spawned, swam, and was processed. Has the fish on your plate been caught or farmed sustainably? Was it fed a healthy diet before it was harvested? Let’s explore the aquaculture industry and find out what you should look for when buying fish.
Innovations in Indoor Farming
Salad from a rooftop? Tomatoes grown in a warehouse? Microgreens in a freight car? Welcome to the new world of indoor agriculture. Herbs, leafy greens, and vegetables grown indoors bring farms to an urban environment and help reshape the food supply chain. Let’s take a look!
How Safe is Our Food?
No one wants to get sick from contaminated food. From farmers to retailers, here is what you need to know about how the food industry and government agencies work to keep you healthy and trust the food you buy.
A Sustainable Shrimp’s Tail
Shrimp is the most popular American seafood. But have you ever given any thought as to how shrimp is farmed or caught? Not all shrimp are the same. Do you want to know what kind of shrimp to eat and where it came from?
Going…Going…Local!
Why buy local? Many Americans learn about farming for the first time when they meet a local farmer or read about their products and production methods in a store. In this way, local and regional food economies help non-farming Americans reconnect with all of agriculture.
Insects: A New Protein Source
The world population is growing at a rate of 1.2% In response to this, food processing companies have begun to explore insects as an alternative protein source. What are the benefits to eating insects and are they an effective answer to future food shortage issues? If you are looking for a new protein option, here is what you need to know…
Grass or Grain, Beef is Beef
Whether your meat was fed a grain-based meal or foraged for grass, it is still a nutritious source of protein, B-complex vitamins, zinc, iron, and phosphorus.
Let The Hens Out! Cage Free Eggs
The poultry industry is changing how farmers raise egg laying chickens. By 2025, the US egg supply will be almost entirely cage free. But, what does this mean for the welfare of the chicken? And how are chicken producers responding to consumer demand for transparency?
The Regulatory Approval Process for Pesticides
The US Environmental Protection Agency regulates pesticides used in both conventional and organic farming by a rigorous process that is designed to protect human health. Additionally, the pesticide-residue testing process by the USDA and the FDA consistently show residues on foods are well below established U.S. EPA tolerance levels.
Conventional…or Organic?
Both conventional and organic farmers are subject to standards that make the U.S. food supply the safest in the world.
GMO Labeling: What’s the Point?
As of July 1, 2016, the state of Vermont requires all foods made with genetically modified ingredients to be labeled as such. While transparency in the food supply chain is typically a good thing, in the case of GMOs it does not make sense from a nutritional standpoint.
Wild vs. Farmed Salmon
Is eating farmed salmon or wild salmon better for the environment and healthier for you? Up until now, we believed wild salmon to be the healthier, cleaner, and a more environmentally conscious salmon option. But after visiting salmon farms in Norway, you may be surprised to learn what we found out…
Media Madness and the Search for Truth
with Media Madness And The Search For Truth
