Food Blog

The Food Blog covers our latest research and extension work to advance and optimize the production and vitality of California's abundant agricultural commodities.

Farmer Paul Buxman says his Sweet Home Ranch jam (right) is so addictive, it's 'barely legal.'

Farmers can increase income by expanding small operations with creative new businesses

February 9, 2018

Farms that sell only fresh produce are dependent on buyers for markets and pricing.

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Guacamole and salsa shouldn't be left out for longer than 2 hours.

On Super Bowl Sunday, don't drop the ball on food safety

February 4, 2018

By Pamela S Kan-Rice

At Super Bowl parties, dropped passes and missed tackles should be the only things making football fans' stomachs churn. Leaving food out for more than two hours can be hazardous to your health and that of your guests, cautions a UC Cooperative Extension nutrition expert.

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This is the championship Dixon Ridge 4-H Club Chili Team: (from left) siblings Moncerral “Monce” Torres Cisneros, Maritzia Partida Cisneros, Rudolfo “Rudy” Radillio Cisneros, and Miguel Partida Cisneros. They made “4-H Green and White Chili.” (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

4-H chili cookoff: Heralding green and white

February 1, 2018

What's green and white and wins a county 4-H chili cookoff? Chili, 4-H chili. And it's just in time for Super Bowl Sunday on Feb. 4 when the New England Patriots square off in Minneapolis, Minn., with the Philadelphia Eagles.

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An example of hand-labeled products with date and product-type. (Photo: Missy Gable)

Keep spoilage away with UC Master Food Preserver guidelines

January 30, 2018

What's the best aspect of food preservation in the winter? Safely enjoying the fruits (veggies and meats) of your labor! How do you ensure that time is spent savoring the sight, smell, and taste of a home preserved product, rather than turning up your nose at unsightly mold speckled contents?

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Ronald F. Bond collecting samples in the Salinas Valley. (Photo: M. L. Partyka)

Produce safety training ensuring continued enjoyment of specialty crops

January 26, 2018

Oakleaf, Mizuna, Red Rib Chicory, Lollo Rosa, and Lamb's Lettuce, are the names of a few of the leafy vegetables which graced my salad plate. The thinly sliced fresh red onion, juicy pomegranate kernels, and fresh citrus dressing added to the delectable ensemble.

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