Category Archives: Food/Kitchen/Farm/Agriculture

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World Census of Agriculture

Much like its role as a discoverer of new knowledge and as a large consumer in the energy sector, education communities have a significant role in food security research and as a consumer in its school lunch programs, dormitory, athletic facility and healthcare enterprises.  Accordingly — in much the same way we follow the US Census Bureau’s monthly construction activity report — we follow a data point provided by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) as one of our stars to steer by.

The World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates  is a monthly report published by the USDA that provides comprehensive forecast of supply and demand for major crops (global and United States) and livestock (U.S. only). The report provides an analysis of the fundamental condition of the agricultural commodity markets for the use of farmers, governments and other market participants.

 

World Agricultural Supply & Demand Estimates | September 12, 2025

 

 

 

We maintain the WASDE report on our periodic Nourriture colloquia.   See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting; open to everyone


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Morrill Land-Grant Act

Family of Mr. Schoenfeldt | Sheridan County, Kansas
Source: Farm Security Administration Russell Lee photographer

Food Code 2022

“Fall Plowing” | Gant Wood (1880)

Food safety is an obvious priority for education communities, given the prevalence of school lunch programs, student residence meal services, university-affiliated hospitals, athletic and entertainment event concessions — too many to count.   We find food services in the interstitial spaces of traditional educational occupancies such as libraries and student recreation centers.  Many land grant colleges and universities were founded to develop agricultural programs for local food supply and safety.  It is fair to say that there are far more people involved in food preparation and delivery services than there are skilled tradespersons such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, software programmers, etc.

The food supply chain is an essential feature of education community infrastructure so we track the literature of food safety and sustainability here; starting with one of its foundational documents with the force of law.

FOOD CODE 2022

Capra hircus

Goat farming is an important source of livelihood for many small-scale farmers in developing countries, particularly in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The FAO estimates that more than 90% of the world’s goats are raised in developing countries, where they provide a critical source of food and income for rural communities.

Overall, the global goat farming industry continues to grow, driven by increasing demand for goat meat and milk products, as well as the potential for sustainable agriculture practices.

Advantages:

Low start-up costs: Goat farming requires relatively low start-up costs compared to other types of agriculture. Goats are small animals that do not require much space, and they can be raised in a variety of environments, from small backyard farms to large commercial operations.

High productivity: Goats are known for their high reproductive rate, which allows farmers to increase their herd size quickly. They are also efficient at converting food into milk and meat, making them a profitable investment for farmers.

Multiple uses: Goats can be raised for meat, milk, and fiber, making them a versatile livestock option. Additionally, their manure can be used as fertilizer, and they can be used for weed control on farms and other properties.

Sustainable farming: Goat farming can be a sustainable agricultural practice, as goats do not require large amounts of feed or water, and they can be raised on marginal lands that are unsuitable for other types of agriculture.

Disadvantages:

Predation: Goats are vulnerable to predation by coyotes, dogs, and other predators, which can be a significant problem for farmers, especially in rural areas.

Disease susceptibility: Goats are susceptible to a variety of diseases, some of which can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Additionally, some diseases can be transmitted to humans, making it important for farmers to take precautions when handling their animals.

Market volatility: The demand for goat products can be volatile, and prices can fluctuate significantly based on supply and demand. This can make it challenging for farmers to predict their income and manage their finances.

Labor intensive: Goat farming can be labor-intensive, especially during kidding and milking seasons. This can make it difficult for farmers to manage their workload, especially if they have a large herd.

Girl with a Goat | Benton County Arkansas

 

Animal Safety

Pomegranates: How and When to Pick

Standards Utah | Extension Service

The pomegranate is a significant symbol in Jewish tradition, particularly during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Its symbolism is rooted in both its physical characteristics and its cultural and spiritual associations.

Abundance and Fertility: Pomegranates are filled with numerous seeds, which symbolize abundance, fertility, and prosperity. During Rosh Hashanah, a time of renewal and hope for a sweet and bountiful year, eating pomegranates reflects the wish for a year filled with blessings and plenty.

Mitzvot and Righteousness: Jewish tradition often associates the pomegranate’s many seeds—traditionally said to number 613—with the 613 commandments (mitzvot) in the Torah. Consuming pomegranates during Rosh Hashanah expresses the hope that one’s life will be filled with good deeds and adherence to these commandments in the coming year.

Renewal and New Beginnings: Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish year, a time for introspection, repentance, and setting intentions for personal growth. The pomegranate, as a fruit that ripens around this season in the Mediterranean region, symbolizes renewal and the potential for a fresh start.

Connection to the Land of Israel: Pomegranates are one of the seven species (Shivat Haminim) mentioned in the Torah as special products of the Land of Israel (Deuteronomy 8:8). Their inclusion in Rosh Hashanah celebrations reinforces the connection to the land and its blessings, evoking gratitude and a sense of rootedness in Jewish heritage.

Hope and Sweetness: On Rosh Hashanah, it is customary to eat sweet foods to symbolize the hope for a sweet year. While pomegranates have a tart-sweet flavor, they are often included in the festive meal or ritual foods, accompanied by a blessing such as: “May it be Your will, O Lord our God, that our merits be as numerous as the seeds of a pomegranate.”

During Rosh Hashanah, pomegranates may be eaten fresh, incorporated into dishes, or displayed as part of the festive table. Some communities recite a specific blessing or prayer when eating the pomegranate, emphasizing its symbolic meaning. The fruit’s vibrant red color and seed-filled interior make it a powerful visual and spiritual emblem for the holiday’s themes of hope, abundance, and spiritual growth. This symbolism aligns with the broader themes of Rosh Hashanah: reflection, renewal, and the aspiration for a year filled with goodness and divine favor.

“Mainely” Potato Salad & Wild Blueberry Pie

Standards Maine

Wild Blueberry Pie


“FDSC 4300: The Science and Technology of Beer”

Professor Karl Siebert, who teaches FDSC 4300, The Science and Technology of Beer, demonstrates how to properly pour a beer and discusses the sensory experience of beer appreciation. In a recent study, Siebert identified the key component in a ‘perfect’ head of beer: a barley protein known as Lipid Transport Protein 1 or LPT1.

Olive Oil Research

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Summer Meals

Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder

Ann Arbor Public Schools | Student Summer Food Service Program
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Readings

“The Negro Family: The Case For National Action” 1965 Daniel Patrick Moynihan

“Black Rednecks and White Liberals” by Thomas Sowell

“Please Stop Helping Us: How Liberals Make It Harder for Blacks to Succeed” by Jason L. Riley

“Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America” by John McWhorter

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