When It Comes to Fighting Food Waste, Knowledge Is Power

Farmers are stepping up in big ways to raise awareness about food waste in their communities and online. They care deeply about the issue because of the resources, time and energy that goes into growing the food we put on our plates. Let’s look at a few ways they’re reaching out to inspire change.

Missouri cattle rancher Luella Gregory spent her own childhood on a farm and is now passionate about bringing that experience to today’s youth. Luella regularly visits elementary schools to talk about sustainability, nutrition and where our food comes from. Teaching kids to value food from a young age may be one way of ensuring that they avoid wasting it as adults.

“We want them to understand and appreciate what agriculture is and how it affects them every day, how farmers play a role in fueling the school bus they ride or producing the carton of milk they drink, the hamburger they eat, or even the crayons they use in the afternoon during their art class,” Luella said. “We want them to connect the dots with their everyday lives.”

In Tennessee, Brandon Whitt of Batey Farms takes a slightly different approach to outreach. He draws his audience in with a sea of sunflowers, a vast 36 acres lining the edge of a working farm with hogs, berries, vegetables and row crops on the horizon. Thousands of visitors leave each year with unique photos to cherish, but Whitt hopes they also take with them a greater understanding of sustainable farms like his.

“When people hear about agriculture and technology, they tend to put their guard up. So, what we get to do is engage our community and teach them about modern farming practices,” Brandon said. “Through better advancements in technology, we’re able to cut waste and know exactly how the inputs we put into the farm are affecting the yields and quality of crop that makes it to market.”

Farmers like Luella and Brandon know just how much effort it takes to grow a plant or raise an animal. They’re committed to making sure everyone knows the value of practicing sustainable agriculture and using our food supply resourcefully. You can join them by learning more about the No Taste For Waste initiative and ordering our bookazine Waste Less, Save Money! online today!