East Michigan News

Students at Central Michigan University had the opportunity to learn about food safety from Lori Yelton, a consultant with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The session took place on October 15 in the NDS 364 Food Safety, Sanitation, and Health class.

Yelton's presentation emphasized the farm-to-school initiative and the importance of adhering to food safety practices. Key topics discussed included the FDA Food Code and the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), which aim to ensure nutritious meals for students.

The session also focused on Michigan’s 10 Cents a Meal Program, an initiative that supports local farmers while improving school meal nutrition. This program helps promote healthy eating habits and strengthens connections between students and local agriculture.

Michigan is recognized as a leader in agriculture, being the top producer in several commodities such as tart cherries, cucumbers, dry beans, squash, and asparagus. The state also ranks highly for apples, carrots, grapes, blueberries, and celery.

Dr. Jeff Fisher, instructor of NDS 364, stated: “Engaging with professionals like Lori Yelton equips our students with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure food safety and promote sustainable practices in the food industry.” He added that real-world experiences are essential for preparing students for future challenges in this field.

The session highlighted not only food safety's role in school meal programs but also inspired students to support local agriculture and advocate for healthier food systems.

For further details about NDS 364 or upcoming lectures, contact Dr. Jeff Fisher at fishe2jj@cmich.edu. For information about the Nutrition and Dietetics program, reach out to Dr. Najat Yehia at yahia1n@cmich.edu.