Garden to Pantry: An Interactive and Interdisciplinary Approach to Growing and Preserving Produce
Extension Education
Rebecca Catalena
Regional Extension Agent - Food Safety & Quality
Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Mobile
Abstract
The Garden-to-Pantry (G2P) program aims to provide participants with a comprehensive, one-day experience covering everything from planting and pest management to food preservation and cooking seasonal crops. Based on the Home Food Preservation Needs Assessment for Alabama stakeholders, there is significant interest in the G2P program, with 91% (843 respondents) expressing a preference for a cross-discipline approach to educational events. The G2P program offers multiple benefits, including improved food safety, increased variety, better flavor, and positive environmental impacts. By consuming food grown in home or community gardens, participants gain access to produce that may not be readily available elsewhere. The G2P program appeals to a diverse group of people that may grow their own food, including homesteaders, rural families, health-conscious individuals, novice gardeners, and food preservationists. G2P sessions, which last 4 hours, include topics on growing basics, pest management, nutrition education, food preservation techniques (e.g., pressure canning, water bath canning, freezing), and hands-on cooking demonstration that can benefit these groups of people. In 2024, the program hosted 10 events, with 129 participants (83% female, 17% male). Of these, 92% were white, 7% were Black, and less than 1% identified as American Indian, Asian, Pacific Islander, or other races. Evaluations showed that 41% of participants reported a significant increase in their knowledge of growing produce (up from 17% before the workshop). Over 80% of participants indicated plans to apply the concepts and techniques learned. Testimonials highlighted the program’s impact, such as one participant stating, “I fully intend to use what I learned when gardening and preserving food this fall.” The program will expand in 2025, aiming to reach 20 counties across Alabama. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the G2P program in increasing knowledge and encouraging the adoption of sustainable gardening and food preservation practices.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Rebecca Catalena, Carmen Flamini
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Catalena, R. Regional Extension Agent - Food Safety & Quality, Auburn Extension, Alabama, 36608-5298
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Flamini, C. Regional Extension Agent- Home Grounds, Gardens & Pests , Auburn Extension, Alabama, 36507