Cornucopia’s Take: As public funding for university research dwindles, industry research frequently fills the void. This means the questions researchers address are often questions Big Ag would like to see answered. Unfortunately, it also means that research performed by academics who seek to improve the health of people and the environment may find themselves on… Read more »
Industrial Farming Alone Cannot Feed the World
Cornucopia’s Take: Organic farming plays an important role in sequestering carbon, building soil fertility, conserving water, providing high-nutrient food, and mitigating the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Industrial farms pump out billions of bushels of GMO corn and soy to feed sick livestock in massive CAFOs to flood markets with cheap bacon, hamburger, milk,… Read more »
U.S. Continues to Allow Harmful Food Additives Banned in Europe
Cornucopia’s Take: Food processors add “value” to baked goods, cereals, packaged snack foods, and other foods often in part by adding preservatives, flavorings, added vitamins and minerals, and food coloring. Some products containing additives allowed by the FDA in the U.S. have been reformulated without them for sale in Europe. The article below details some… Read more »
Flowers Sweeten Nectar on Demand
Cornucopia’s Take: If you have ever hand-pollinated a flower, you understand the critical work of bees and other pollinators. Scientists have discovered that the sound vibration of bees’ buzzing causes the evening primrose flower to sweeten its nectar. Findings like this one open the door for more understanding of co-evolution and the complex inter-workings of… Read more »
USDA Back to Work with the Shutdown Over
Cornucopia’s Take: As spring planting decisions begin for farmers, 62 USDA reports have been delayed by the federal government shutdown. With USDA personnel back in their offices this week, reports will be released, farmer loans can again be originated, and tariff payments will be disbursed. The agency’s WASDE report, a monthly crop report for the… Read more »
2018 E. Coli Outbreaks May Have Been Due to Water Contamination
Cornucopia’s Take: Officials now suspect the bacterial outbreaks last year occurred because a California irrigation canal carried E. coli from a 100,000 head cattle feedlot to the irrigation ponds used to water romaine lettuce. Officials are draining the canal early this season for repairs, testing, and removal of any E. coli-contaminated sediment. Feedlots promote dangerous… Read more »
Known Health Concerns About Glyphosate, the Main Ingredient in Roundup
Cornucopia’s Take: Use of the herbicide glyphosate has skyrocketed around the world since the introduction of crops genetically engineered to be Roundup Ready (resistant) in 1996. While the EPA insists that glyphosate does not cause cancer in humans, some research reviews have come to different findings. U.S. Right to Know seeks transparency in the food… Read more »
Organic Accounts for 14% of Money Spent in the Produce Aisle
Cornucopia’s Take: According to Nielsen data, organic produce sales continue to grow at a much faster pace than conventional produce sales. Nielsen posits that “mindful moms”—those seeking the best and safest food for their children and families—are driving the continued upswing in organic food purchasing. Retail View: Data show that organics still thriving The Produce… Read more »
Farmer Loans On Hold Until the Federal Government Re-Opens
Cornucopia’s Take: Many farmers have lost opportunities or remain uncertain as to how they will get needed loans for the upcoming growing season with USDA FSA offices closed during the shutdown. Secretary Perdue announced that offices will be open January 17, 18, and 22 to producers with existing loans only. Farm Country Stood by Trump…. Read more »
USDA FSA Offices Open Temporarily During Shutdown on January 17, 18, and 22
Cornucopia’s Take: Producers with existing farm loans who need assistance or 1099s for taxes have three days to get help during the federal government shutdown. Share this story with farmers you know! USDA FSA offices temporarily reopen during government shutdown Feedstuffs.com Offices will be open Jan. 17, 18 and 22 to assist producers with existing… Read more »
