News Releases

You want the best for your family.

Read our latest food blogs or check out the full list of family-related advice.
Follow us on social media: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

A close up of basil
Flavor your meals with low-maintenance homegrown herbs
URBANA, Ill. – Culinary herbs are a favorite of many gardeners. They are easy to grow as they require little care, have few insect and disease problems, and generally prefer moderate fertility levels. In addition, they add fragrance and beauty to the garden. Many herbs such as lavender, sage,...
Illinois Extension celebrates outstanding programs, staff
URBANA, Ill. – Across the state, local University of Illinois Extension staff members help families, businesses, and communities identify local issues and potential solutions to those issues. Extension professionals use research-based knowledge and translate that knowledge into actions and...
Plant seeds for success with beginner vegetable gardening workshop
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you have a multi-row backyard vegetable plot or a patio with room for a few containers, now is the time to start planning for a successful gardening season. Over the past several years, there has been a surge of gardeners taking up the trowel for the first time to try...
cardboard box full of large and small tomatoes and banana peppers
Central Illinois communities come together to feed families
COLES COUNTY, Ill. – When MaryBeth Massey developed a project to address food insecurity in her hometown, she wanted to start small. By partnering with a local Amish community produce auction, she aimed to provide 1,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to families in need in 2019.  ...
Bring homegrown foods to the table this Thanksgiving
Bring homegrown foods to the table this Thankgiving URBANA, Ill. – Celebrating the year’s harvest with a Thanksgiving feast has been an American tradition for more than 400 years. Whether homegrown or from a farmers market, the demand for locally sourced foods is on the rise. ...
Prevent your risk for diabetes before it’s too late
URBANA, Ill. — Six in ten people gained weight during the pandemic, according to an American Psychological Association study. The risk of developing pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes may increase with extra weight...
Baby feeding resource delivers peace of mind for new parents
URBANA, Ill. – New parents faced with the responsibility of caring for a baby often wonder how often to feed a newborn, when to wean babies from breastmilk or formula, when to introduce baby to solid foods, and whether homemade baby food is better than store-bought. Babies may not come...