So All of Us Can Grow Up Big And Strong: Studies show the nutrient value of fruits and vegetables is significantly higher when they are picked ripe and nutritional value diminishes substantially after harvest. That’s a problem when most produce in the U.S. is harvested before it is fully ripe and travels an average of 1500 miles to get to your plate, which generally takes between 4 and 7 days. (1,2) In fact, your average fresh vegetable loses up to 45% of its nutritional valu

The University of Illinois Macon County Extension is offering a “From Garden Gates to Dinner Plates” program from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17. To learn more about Illinois' cottage food regulations, register online or call (217) 877-6042. For more information on creating a Cottage Food business, contact the Macon County Health Department at (217) 423-6988. DECATUR – Snuggled up next to the traditional booths of lush broccoli and bright tomatoes at farmers markets are t

Now you can find farm-fresh meals at your favorite restaurants during Local Flavors 2014! Participating restaurants across Central Illinois will prepare a fresh, seasonal meal with produce sourced from local farmers. Fresh, Healthy, Delicious, Good for you, Good for the Community, and Good for the Environment. The next Local Flavors event will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2014. Location and menus are listed below. The Local Flavors Farm-to-Table Series will take place in S

This year Common Ground challenges you, our community, to help raise 10,000 meals for the Eastern Illinois Foodbank! For a donation of any amount, you can build your own sundae with local ice cream from Kilgus Farmstead Creamery and organic toppings, enjoy local music from The Church Street Ramblers, face painting, kids entertainment from our own Produce Manager Satina, and the opportunity to meet your local food bank staff. This event is open to everyone and a delicious way

Purchase your tickets here Learn More about Heirloominous farm here Join Heirloominous Farm and Slow Food Champaign Urbana for a tapas-style party at Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery on Thursday, August 28. The meal will feature cherry tomatoes, tomatilloes, melons, okra and basil grown by Heirloominous Farm's Shea Belahi. Live music and a tour of the farm are other features of the night. As with all events at Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery, the evening is BYOB. All proce