I'm very excited to share that this morning Andrews Idun successfully defended his dissertation, Human Dimensions of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). I had the privilege to work with Andrews as his PhD committee chair and academic advisor the past three years at the University of Georgia. For his dissertation Andrews focused on consumer perceptions of CEA with the hope that this information can help to inform Extension, producer, policy, and marketing strategies. On his graduate committee Andrews had Dr. Alexa Lamm and Dr. Jessica Holt, also from the University of Georgia, as well as Dr. Mihee Park from Auburn University... Andrews is very excited to share the results from his work in upcoming journal articles. I will be sure to provide updates as they become available. Congratulations again, Dr. Andrews Idun!

As an 11 year 4-H member myself, I have personally experienced the positive benefits of the program. I was therefore very excited to work on a study with several amazing collaborators to identify to core strengths of the Georgia 4-H program. It is well established that 4-H and other youth development programs are important options for developing responsible, community-focused leaders. 4-H offers structured activities that promote practical skills, empathy, character, and service. By identifying top strengths in the Georgia 4-H program, our goal was to provide a framework and foundation for future 4-H and youth development programs and research - more specifically, what is working and how can programs better leverage these strengths? We also connected these strengths to established youth development theories, identifying how participants gain confidence, practical life skills, and beneficial relationships with leaders and volunteers. Key Findings Robust Strengths : We found a range of core strengths, including strong leadership frameworks and supportive environments, important to 4-H’s continued success. Five C’s Alignment : Competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring emerged as guiding principles for positive youth development. Character and Life Skills : Core traits like problem-solving, empathy, and integrity help support individual growth and align with broader organizational goals. Leadership Development : Mentorship and real-world experiences give youth opportunities to build professional and personal competencies and connections. Practical Recommendations Layer Multiple Domains : Programs should look for opportunities to blend leadership, character-building, and life-skills activities to deepen engagement within different domain areas (for example linking public speaking and community engagement within the beef project) to further reflect 4-H’s values. Promote Engagement : Emphasize different opportunities to participate and engage so that all participants can see themselves represented and can learn from each other’s backgrounds. Strengthen Organizational Behaviors : Leaders and volunteers serve as important role models for program youth, finding opportunities to demonstrate behaviors such as emotional intelligence, clear communication, and accountability can be very powerful. Refine Programming : Adjust curricula and events to showcase the program’s strongest traits - focusing on programmatic strengths can help to ensure youth have a positive and productive experience. By focusing on these core strengths the 4-H program can continue to provide a robust learning platform for developing tomorrow's leaders. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Powell, A., Scaduto, J. J., & Lamm, K. W. (2021). Perceived strengths of the Georgia 4-H program: A delphi analysis. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension , 9 (3), 32-51. https://www.jhseonline.com/article/view/1124

Extension networks play an important role in translating agricultural research into practical solutions. They connect farmers, organizations, policymakers, and others, ensuring resources and expertise are available when needed. Based on a project with the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) , I worked with a team of amazing collaborators to develop an empirical scale for Extension networks to assess their advocacy capacity. Advocacy is important for Extension networks to be able to represent stakeholder interests and building resilience across the food system. Our study developed and validated an instrument to assess advocacy capacity in international extension networks. Based on Lewin’s Organizational Change Theory, we identified five factors—support, integration, influence, performance, and visibility—that show how networks gather resources, adopt new methods, and sustain momentum. Key Findings Clear Priorities : The instrument identified areas where advocacy efforts need attention, such as building strategic alliances and communicating with policymakers. Holistic Approach : It looks at how networks integrate advocacy into ongoing activities, helping leaders and stakeholders identify different responsibilities. Improved Visibility : By assessing performance and outreach, networks can see if they are reaching the right audiences and making an impact. Practical Recommendations Set Measurable Goals : Extension networks can use the instrument to define progress goals for advocacy efforts. For example, identify networks might set policy engagement or collaborative program targets and track how well these goals are met. Strengthen Collaboration : Focus on shared advocacy tasks. Networks should develop teams that monitor policy changes and share resources across different networks and organizations. Encourage Ongoing Feedback : Integrate the tool into regular evaluations to see if network members feel supported, know their roles, and see results from their advocacy efforts. Invest in Training : Provide leadership development and communication workshops so network members can effectively represent stakeholder interests and needs. By applying this new instrument, Extension networks can identify areas for potential improvements, increase advocacy efforts, and better support the stakeholders they represent. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your insights in the comments. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Sanders, C. E., & Powell, A. (2021). Development and validation of the international extension network advocacy capacity scale. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28 (5), 65-95. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1029

Agricultural leadership development programs are very important for a safe and resilient food system. They equip participants to address a range of complex tasks like managing resources and adapting to critical issues. We were interested in looking at what influences participant satisfaction with such programs. We examined the possible relationship between program directors and program participants based on leader-member exchange (LMX) , which looks at how each side trusts and supports the other. In other research this dynamic can influence performance, satisfaction, and other important outcomes. Based on our research we were able to determine whether LMX contributed to overall participant satisfaction. Key Findings Strong Director-Participant Relationships : Many participants described respectful, positive interactions with their program directors. These interactions supported a sense of trust and encouraged open communication about program goals. Demographic Factors : Demographics showed no direct link to satisfaction. This suggests that people from various backgrounds found the program valuable. Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) : The quality of the director-participant relationship emerged as a clear factor in how satisfied participants felt. This finding highlights the importance of personal engagement. Practical Recommendations Regularly Assess LMX : Gather data on director-participant relationships at planned intervals. This approach helps reveal when adjustments could enhance the learning environment. Bring in External Evaluators : Independent evaluations can encourage honest feedback, which helps directors refine methods to better meet participant needs. Examine Additional Influences : Factors like program content, peer support, or mentorship could also shape participant satisfaction. Adding these measures may capture a fuller picture. Encourage Ongoing Conversation : Frequent check-ins or feedback sessions can show participants that their opinions matter, creating a more responsive and interactive experience. Conclusion Strong director-participant relationships can boost satisfaction and in turn, encourage leadership growth. The importance of a resilient food system is critical, helping to create supportive environments for the next generation of agricultural leaders to develop is an important part of the process. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the Comments below. Lamm, K. W., & Priest, K. L. (2019). Evaluating the role of leader member exchange in leadership development program satisfaction. Journal of Agricultural Education , 60 (3), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2019.03001

Extension and rural advisory services (RAS) are important to help ensure a safe and resilient food systems worldwide. With growing population demands and limited resources, Extension providers play a key role in supporting farmers and communities. However, strengthening these efforts requires more than individual expertise; moving from informal to more professional recognition for Extension services is important to build both trust and perceived value. In certain international contexts Extension services are not always centrally administered or managed, leaving the potential for some Extension providers to not necessarily have the background nor expertise to provide needed services. Working with a great team of researchers we wanted to identify the critical capacities necessary for Extension networks to establish professionalization standards. Key Findings Capacity Building : Most identified capacities revolve around access to knowledge, resources, and technologies, emphasizing the interconnected nature of Extension networks. Professional Milestones : Professionalization does not happen spontaneously; rather, networks must progress through structured milestones. (A great resource is Abbott (1991): https://doi.org/10.1177/0730888491018004001 ) Shared Norms & Values : A shared sense of purpose across Extension networks encourages coherent communication and develops a supportive environment for practitioners. Context Matters : The diverse experiences and perspectives of global Extension professionals underscore the importance of customizing capacity-building efforts to local conditions. Practical Recommendations Assess Network Maturity : Determine if the network is aligned, has the right actors engaged, and is committed to collective goals before initiating professionalization strategies. Formalize Standards : Establish associations or committees to develop and enforce professional benchmarks, promoting consistency across contexts. Leverage Conceptual Frameworks : Utilize established frameworks to guide professionalization efforts (e.g. knowledge management ), helping to support efforts. Use Diagnostic Tools : Use empirical instruments to evaluate network readiness, plan capacity-building activities, and facilitate common understanding among stakeholders. Our hope with this research is to provide Extension networks a set of research findings to help guide and engage in meaningful conversations about professionalization. Using other models (law, medicine, etc.) Extension networks may be able to leverage best practices and implement an approach which helps promote consistency and standards, and thus helping to support stakeholders more effectively. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Swaroop, B. J., & Edgar, L. D. (2020). Identifying capacities needed for professionalization of extension networks. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education , 27 (2), 91-107. https://doi.org/10.5191/jiaee.2020.27291

This week I had the opportunity to visit the new National 4-H Council facility in Washington D.C. as part of a national committee meeting (it is a fantastic space!). It gave me an opportunity to reflect on all the benefits I received from the 4-H program growing up. Programs like 4-H can be transformative, equipping participants with the skills, confidence, and networks to shape their future. By engaging in hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and community involvement, 4-H members often develop broader outlooks that influence personal growth well beyond the program. Working with an amazing team we examined what experiences Georgia 4-H alumni found most impactful for shaping their expanded perspectives. Key Findings Consensus on Impactful Experiences  – Experts identified 36 different experiences, with 75% of them receiving individual consensus ratings over 90%. This illuminates the variety of program elements that significantly affect 4-H alumni outlooks. Opportunities to Interact with New Perspectives  – Connecting with individuals who have different life experiences achieved unanimous agreement, emphasizing how such exchanges broaden members’ worldviews. Alumni Testimonials  – Hearing from dynamic speakers also reached unanimous consensus, illustrating that success stories can spark inspiration and encourage members to visualize new possibilities. Practical Recommendations Layered Programming  – Combine professional skills development, leadership training, and mentorship with traditional 4-H events, projects, and camps to offer growth experiences in both direct and indirect ways. Outreach  – Engage multiple communities so members can learn from various backgrounds and viewpoints, enhancing personal and professional skills. Frequent Alumni Engagement  – Host regular testimonial events, enabling members to hear firsthand about 4-H’s positive impact and reflect on their own growth. Although our study focused on Georgia 4-H and may not represent all 4-H programs, it hopefully provides guidance on using 4-H to help expand youth perspectives. Prioritizing meaningful interactions, leadership opportunities, and alumni-driven inspiration, can help support members. This intentional approach can help members better serve their clubs, their communities, their country, and the world. Please be sure to share your insights in the Comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Powell, A., Bennett, N., & Lamm, K. W. (2021). Expanding 4-H alumni life perspectives: An experiential and programmatic evaluation. Journal of Agricultural Education, 62 (2), 185-200. http://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2021.02185

Nepal is very unique environment with rugged terrain and a large agrarian economy , which depends on agriculture for both livelihoods and food security. The country’s topography and history creates an environment which requires innovative, resilient approaches to agriculture and the food system. Developing critical thinking skills in Nepal’s undergraduate student population is very important as these individuals will be the next generation of farmers and policy makers tasked with addressing these complex issues. At the same time, understanding learners’ different styles can help identify how best to share information and best practices. I was excited to be part of a research team exploring how these dimensions—learning styles and critical thinking—intersect among Nepalese students. Key Findings Critical Thinking Differences  – Female students gravitated toward “seeker” styles, while male students preferred “engager” approaches. Academic Progression and Learning Styles  – First-year students showed higher Concrete Experience (CE) preferences, whereas fourth-year students exhibited lower CE preferences. Moderation by Gender  – Gender moderated how “seeker” critical thinking connected with CE learning, with female students showing stronger engagement in experiential tasks. Shifting Preferences Over Time  – The influence of “seeker” style decreased as students advanced academically, indicating evolving learning needs. Practical Recommendations Tailored Teaching  – Depending on group dynamics it may be appropriate to encourage more information-seeking approaches for some students; whereas facilitating discussion and group projects for other students may be more effective. Progressive Curriculum Design  – Integrate hands-on labs and field trips for first-year students; incorporate advanced, real-world case studies in senior-level courses. Strategic Framing  – Present experiential opportunities as data-gathering moments to align with “seeker” learners’ desire for comprehensive information. Flexible Learning Pathways  – Offer diverse activities (CE, RO, AC, AE) to accommodate shifting preferences throughout academic progression. The findings from our study indicate there is a relationship between learning styles and critical thinking. By customizing instruction to align with these preferences agricultural educators in Nepal can foster more resilient, naturally predisposed critical thinking capacities. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments. Lamm, A. J., Lu, P., Lamm, K. W., Oyugi, M. A., & Adhikari, S. (2025). A conceptual exploration of critical thinking style and learning styles: Supporting educational needs in Nepal.  Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 32 (1). https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1451

Extension networks are an important part of the agricultural and food system, facilitating knowledge transfer, innovation, and improved practices for smallholder farmers around the world. In Malawi—a country where agriculture accounts for nearly 30% of the GDP and supports millions of livelihoods—robust extension services are essential. Yet, rural communities often struggle to retain qualified extension providers. Based on a project I worked on with several amazing colleagues we were able to observe some novel new approaches the Malawi Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services Delivery (MaFAAS) is using to improve the provision of extension services. By focusing on new approaches to recruitment, training, and collaboration, organizations such as MaFAAS are leading important efforts and helping to ensure that rural farmers receive the professional support they require. Key Findings High Attrition Rates  – Persistent turnover among rural extension providers impedes reliable service delivery. Professionalization Gaps  – Limited certification, training, and private-sector involvement leave many farmers underserved. MaFAAS as a Bridge  – Through policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement, MaFAAS fosters collaboration to address extension shortages. Innovative Recruitment Model  – Adapting rural-focused strategies from other sectors helps retain agents familiar with local contexts, agriculture, and food systems. Practical Recommendations Strategic Partnering  – Collaborate with government and NGOs to create clear guidelines and standards for extension services. Community-Centered Recruitment  – Prioritize local talent for rural placements, thereby boosting retention and enhancing community rapport. Structured Policy Engagement  – Follow established models (e.g., Kotter, Policy Leadership Theory) to align resources and commitments. Ongoing Support Systems  – Advocate for necessary resources—transportation, protective gear, etc.—to sustain extension personnel. By improving extension agents’ recruitment, training, and retention in rural areas, Malawi is enhancing farmers’ access to critical information and best practices. The study findings highlight the value of coordinated action, policy alignment, and consistent advocacy. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to read more. Please be sure to provide your insights using the comments. Lamm, K. W., Masambuka-Kanchewa F., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Nahdy, S., & Oyugi, M. A. (2021). A case study analysis of extension service provision in Malawi. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 17 (11), 1386-1392 . https://doi.org/10.5897/AJAR2021.15781

Needs assessments are essential to ensure that agricultural outreach and programming respond directly to local agricultural production needs. By understanding the precise gaps between what Extension and education professionals believe should be addressed (the “should”) and what is currently being addressed (the “current”), resources and policies can be developed and directed more strategically. Sustainable agriculture, in particular, requires a strong focus on local contexts. Strategies that work in one state or region may not translate seamlessly into another, underscoring the value of targeted, data-driven needs assessments. I'm excited the share the findings from a needs assessment I conducted with several amazing collaborators specifically focused on sustainable agricultural production in the Western United States. Key Findings Smallest Gaps:  Key areas like pesticide safety, livestock production, food safety, food preservation, and crop production appear well-served by current resources. This suggests that while these topics remain important, there may be less need for new program development in these areas. Instead, strategic reinvestment and continued communication of existing initiatives may effectively sustain engagement. Largest Gaps:  Identified gaps included financial disparity, food waste, and engaging with policy makers or decision makers. These gaps imply systemic challenges, underscoring the need for programmatic efforts that address broader context considerations, not just purely technical solutions. Barrier Priorities:  Risk (economic and operational), finances (cost of inputs and practice changes), and time (to experiment or learn) stood out as the primary barriers limiting producer adoption of sustainable agricultural methods. These constraints emphasize that practical realities—like upfront costs and learning curves—are just as important as foundational knowledge. Practical Use Resource Allocation:  Direct programmatic funding and administrative support toward bridging the largest gaps. For example, new or revised grants, sponsored workshops, and partnerships with financial institutions or local governments may help address challenges such as policy connections. Tailored Extension Efforts:  Develop outreach and education activities that demonstrate concrete ways to mitigate perceived risks and ease the burdens of time investment. Sharing clear success stories from producers who have integrated sustainable practices—especially those operating within similar local contexts—can help others feel more confident in the potential of these methods. Longitudinal Tracking:  Conduct ongoing needs assessments to monitor how these gaps shift over time. By routinely collecting data, Extension and education professionals can refine initiatives, explore emerging concerns, and ensure that program offerings continue to align with actual producer needs as new challenges arise. These findings highlight how local needs assessments can ensure more effective sustainable agriculture programs. By addressing both technical and contextual challenges, Extension and education professionals can develop solutions tailored to local needs. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., Trojan, S., Sanders, C. E., Byrd, A. R., (2023).  A needs assessment to inform research and outreach efforts for sustainable agricultural practices and food production in the Western United States.  Foods , 12 (8), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12081630

Effectively communicating about agricultural practices is very important, especially when discussing water use. People’s perceptions are shaped not only by what they hear, but also by who delivers the message. For example, farmers can bring first-hand expertise, while conservation organizations may shape attitudes through environmental stewardship experience. I was fortunate to be part of a research team which examined the importance of this “source credibility". Our findings indicate that public support depends on perceiving messengers as knowledgeable and trustworthy. By understanding how different audiences interpret water use information, the agricultural industry can help build and maintain positive relationships and broad-based support for sustainable practices. Key Findings Positive Perceptions:  Most respondents viewed agriculture’s water use favorably, believing producers carefully steward resources and support wildlife habitats. Willingness to Pay More:  Many indicated they would accept higher food prices if it ensured water conservation and responsible environmental practices. Source Credibility Counts:  Participants exposed to a farmer spokesperson rated agriculture’s impact on open space and wildlife higher, while those hearing from a conservation group were more inclined to believe negative effects might occur. Practical Recommendations Tailored Messaging:  Shape communications around the spokesperson’s expertise. Farmers resonate on issues of production, while conservation groups excel at highlighting environmental benefits. Strategic Partnerships:  Collaborate with aligned organizations to broaden reach. Seek out partners who offer complementary expertise for maximum credibility. Audience Awareness:  Recognize that demographics, personal experience, and political ideology can affect how a message is received. Testing different messengers can reveal what resonates best with specific audiences. This research highlights the importance of clear, credible communication from sources that audiences trust. As agriculture continues to advance sustainable water strategies, strategic outreach—paired with the right messenger—can impact, and hopefully improve, public understanding and support. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also provided the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Lamm, A. J., Owens, C. T., Telg, R. W., Lamm, K. W. (2016). Influence of source credibility on agricultural water use communication. Journal of Applied Communications, 100 (3). https://doi.org/10.4148/1051-0834.1235

Farming is deeply tied to nature, community, and resilience, yet it is also one of the most challenging and stressful careers. Several recent studies and articles focus on the stresses associated with farming, agriculture, and those who live and work in rural areas ( https://news.uga.edu/women-stress-rural-farming/ ; https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/why-we-keep-farming-when-the-going-gets-tough ; https://www.psu.edu/news/impact/story/pennsylvania-agforum-address-farm-stress-agricultural-community ; https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/columbus/news/2024/09/27/ag-report--farmer-mental-health-study-examines-stress-levels-and-coping-mechanisms ). Previously I posted about another study I was a part of to develop a rural stress instrument . Farmers face a variety of pressures, from fluctuating market conditions and unpredictable weather to increasing societal demands. Rural stress, including mental health challenges, requires specialized support. Extension agents, as trusted community resources, can play an important role in fostering mental well-being through tailored programs and resources. I was fortunate to be on a research team examining Extension agents perceptions of rural stress in Georgia. Key Findings Regional Variation in Needs: Each district in Georgia exhibited unique priorities related to rural stress. For example, the Northwest focused on communication around stress, while the Northeast emphasized collaboration and resources. Common Themes of Education and Support: Across all districts, the need for increased education and support around farmer and rural stress emerged as a consistent theme. Using Different Facilitation Techniques: Wordcloud activities proved effective in sparking dialogue and identifying region-specific needs for addressing rural stress. Implications Beyond Georgia: Despite geographic differences, rural stress is a universal challenge. Adaptable strategies, such as visual communication tools, can foster engagement even in culturally sensitive settings. Themes from Extension Agents Practical Recommendations Region-Specific Programming: Extension agents should leverage identified district-specific themes to develop customized mental health and rural stress programs, ensuring a tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model. Promote Mental Health Literacy: Using visual tools like wordclouds, agents can encourage open conversations about mental health, reframing discussions to reduce stigma and improve health literacy. Enhance Support Networks: Provide Extension agents with additional training and resources to create a productive work environment and offer effective community support. Expand Collaboration: Investigate the adaptability of findings and strategies across a variety of rural contexts to strengthen mental health resources globally. Extension agents are uniquely positioned to address farmer and rural stress through education, support, and resources. By tailoring efforts to the needs of each community, Extension can empower farmers and foster healthier, more resilient rural communities. Please share your insights using the Comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Wilson, M. C., Stone, W. A., Holt, J. A., Lamm, K. W., Borron, A. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2019). Extension’s role in rural stress: An evaluation of Extension agents’ perceptions of rural stress in Georgia.  Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education ,  26 (3), 27-42. https://doi.org/10.5191/jiaee.2019.26302

The importance of a safe, sustainable, and efficient food system cannot be overstated. Food is central to human health, economic stability, and social well-being, yet the industries associated with food science and technology face an ever-growing array of challenges. From ensuring food safety and public health to addressing the impacts of climate change, these industries must constantly adapt to emerging issues. Understanding and addressing these critical issues is essential to safeguarding global food security while fostering innovation and resilience across the food value chain. Based on a research study I conducted with several amazing colleagues we were able to identify 8 primary issue themes faced by industries associated with food science and technology. Key Findings Education, Training, and Workforce Development : The food industry faces a critical gap in workforce readiness, with many frontline workers lacking formal training. Addressing this gap is essential to ensure efficiency, safety, and the ability to adapt to evolving industry demands. Emerging Technologies in Food Sciences : Technologies like AI, machine learning, and high-pressure processing offer solutions for improving food safety, enhancing product longevity, and addressing shifting consumer preferences. Food Safety and Public Health : Foodborne illnesses remain a pressing global issue, emphasizing the need for stringent safety systems, consumer education, and adherence to robust food safety protocols. Fresh Produce and Raw Food Operations : Fresh produce carries inherent risks due to minimal processing. Contamination along the value chain underscores the need for improved handling, storage, and education practices. Microbiome and Pathogens : The study of microbiomes and pathogens is advancing our understanding of contamination risks. Effective pathogen detection and mitigation strategies are critical to enhancing food system safety. Product Innovation and Development : Consumer-driven demand for healthier and more convenient options fuels innovation. Successful product development hinges on integrating consumer feedback and leveraging cutting-edge research. Quality Assurance and Systems Management : Consistency in quality assurance ensures food safety and strengthens consumer trust. Monitoring and refining systems is key to maintaining high standards across the industry. Sustainability and Climate Resilience : Climate change presents significant challenges to food production. Sustainable practices and climate-resilient strategies are vital for ensuring long-term food security and environmental stewardship. Practical Recommendations Education, Training, and Workforce Development : Establish comprehensive training programs that focus on critical skills like safety protocols, problem-solving, and adaptability to technological advancements, ensuring workers are prepared for modern challenges. Emerging Technologies in Food Sciences : Adopt emerging technologies through pilot programs to assess feasibility and build capacity. Focus on scalable innovations that align with consumer and industry needs. Food Safety and Public Health : Strengthen partnerships between industry and regulators to ensure food safety standards remain effective. Launch campaigns to educate consumers about safe food handling and preparation practices. Fresh Produce and Raw Food Operations : Enhance producer and handler training on contamination prevention and proper handling techniques. Educate consumers on safe preparation and storage practices to minimize risks. Microbiome and Pathogens : Support research into microbiome dynamics and pathogen control. Invest in advanced detection tools to integrate into food safety systems, reducing contamination risks. Product Innovation and Development : Foster collaboration between researchers and consumers to create innovative products that align with evolving market demands. Use consumer insights to refine product offerings. Quality Assurance and Systems Management : Prioritize regular audits and system upgrades to maintain high safety standards. Ensure staff are trained in quality assurance practices to sustain product reliability. Sustainability and Climate Resilience : Integrate sustainable practices into all levels of the supply chain. Promote climate-resilient agricultural methods and efficient resource management to reduce environmental impacts while ensuring food security. Ensuring safe and sufficient food requires a collective commitment across stakeholders. By addressing these critical issues, the food system can remain a cornerstone of global health and prosperity. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included a copy of the research if you would like to learn more. Lamm, K. W., Idun, A., & Lu, P. (2024).  Critical issues faced by industries associated with food science and technology: A delphi analysis.  Foods ,  13 (24), 4149. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13244149