It's more than just what's for dinner.
Food brings families, friends, and communities together. When it comes to making food choices for you and your household, the possibilities seem endless, but not everything is safe, healthy, affordable, or accessible. Whether buying produce at a farmers market, starting a cottage food operation, or wanting to provide your family safe, nutritional foods preserved at home, count on Illinois Extension experts for the trusted solution.
Dig Deeper into these Food Topics

Food Buying
It's a difficult time for the nation's dinner table. We may not be able to control the increases, but we can help you get the most nutritional quality your family deserves with the money you have to spend. Try these ideas for stretching your food dollars.

Food Preparation
Not sure how to make mashed potatoes? Want to make the perfect cake? We have answers to all your food preparation questions. Illinois Extension has been helping people bake, and cook for more than 100 years.

Food Preservation
The art of food preservation is not as difficult as you might first believe. We'll take you through the journey, from the equipment you'll need to the step-by-step process.
Visit the Food Preservation Website

Food Safety
Foodborne illnesses are caused by eating food or drinks contaminated by pathogens. Protect your family, whether preparing food at home or when eating out.


Local Food Purchasing Assistance
The Local Food Purchasing Assistance program is an opportunity to unite Illinoisans invested in building a resilient food system and build a collaborative network of food system support.

Nutrition
The foods we eat have a major impact on our health. It's sometimes hard to know the truth about nutrition. Illinois Extension can help you choose a healthy lifestyle

Seasonal Food Favorites
With the changing of the seasons, we yearn for our favorite seasonal foods. Illinois Extension answers all your questions about growing and eating some of our most favorite foods.

Selling Food
Whether for a hobby or as a career, selling food grown or made in your home carries endless possibilities for enjoyment and profit. It also carries substantial responsibilities for the safety of the public who purchases and consumes your food products.