If there’s anything I’ve gained in 2020, it’s a greater appreciation for everyone – from farmers to food handlers to grocery store employees – who provides safe and nutritious food for my family. 

I encourage you to check out this cool infographic from the Center for Food Integrity, following the path of our food from farm to plate. Personally, I’m paying more attention to how food (and toilet paper!) is produced and transported.

And as we’ve discovered in recent weeks, technology can help solve some of our world’s most pressing challenges, whether it’s developing safe vaccines, feeding a growing global population or reducing agriculture’s environmental impact.

In this issue of the Iowa Dish, we talk to an Iowa farm family about how livestock farmers are focused on sustainability, continuous improvement, and protecting the health and well-being of farm animals.

Plus, with the holidays approaching, we talk to an Iowa State University expert about why it’s important to keep food safety in mind, especially during a pandemic.

In addition, we take a closer look at the latest Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index®, which finds that Iowans recognize the nutritional and immune-boosting benefits of real meat.

Yes, the holidays will look and feel a lot different this year. However, please take some time to practice self-care, help out a neighbor in need, and snuggle on the couch with your kids or pets. Brighter days are guaranteed to be ahead of us.

Teresa Bjork
Editor, The Iowa Dish

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