By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has awarded more than $286,000 in Food Safety Education Fund grants to six organizations across Michigan. The funding aims to improve food safety education, protect public health, and provide training for consumers and food industry workers.
Grants will support a variety of programs. Brightmoor Artisans Collective will offer workshops for Detroit urban growers and backyard poultry keepers on safely processing crops and eggs. The Great Lakes Conference on Food Protection will provide scholarships to health department employees and food service staff to enhance safety practices.
Kent County Health Department will provide home food safety training and kits to reduce foodborne illnesses. The Michigan Environmental Health Association (MEHA) will fund its Annual Education Conference, regional training programs, and two food-related emergency response seminars.
The Michigan Farmers Market Association will provide educational materials in English and Spanish to ensure accessible, high-quality consumer food safety education. The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association will expand its Michigan Food Safety website, offer school concession stand training, and provide food safety training and sanitation starter kits for small-chain and independent restaurant staff.
Since its inception under the Michigan Food Law, the Food Safety Education Fund has provided nearly $2.2 million in grants, funded through licensing fees from Michigan food establishments. The program supports training for consumers, food service employees, and MDARD agents enforcing food regulations.
MDARD Director Tim Boring emphasized that food safety is vital for community health and that these grants help secure the food supply chain and protect Michigan families.
Food safety resources and educational materials are available on MDARD’s website and through the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, helping communities, schools, and food service providers maintain safe and sanitary practices.
These grants highlight MDARD’s ongoing commitment to investing in Michigan communities, improving food safety, and supporting education initiatives that benefit both consumers and the food industry statewide.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-d-keine
Categories: Michigan, Education