Items by Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
New Report by the Milken Institute: A Blueprint for Employer-led Food as Health Strategies
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Jun. 30, 2025
As Food as Medicine (also known as Food is Medicine) campaigns increase in popularity, employers recognize the ability to leverage food to create healthier and happier employees. Employees are looking for benefits beyond healthcare coverage.
Recap of Whole Foods Market’s Top 10 Food and Beverage Trend Predictions for 2025
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Nov. 25, 2024
Last month, the Whole Foods Market’s Trends Council released their top 10 food and beverage trend predictions for 2025. Each year the Council develops trend predictions through industry experience, observing consumer behavior, and collaborating with new and established brands.
Summaries of Produce Auction Quantities and Prices Available Soon
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Jul. 28, 2023
The produce auction is a marketing channel for growers producing fruit and vegetable crops, nursery crops, and ornamentals. There are several produce auctions located throughout Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and other bordering states.
Where to Find Local Agricultural Products Near You!
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Apr. 28, 2023
May is almost here, which means backyard gardening, trips to agritourism venues, and farmers’ markets are about to be in full swing! The local, fresh fruits and vegetables we have been waiting for all winter are finally readily available to us. But have you ever wondered where to find it?
Valentine’s Day: One of a Flower Grower’s Favorite Holidays
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Feb. 28, 2023
Valentine’s Day has topped its historical spending record for the second year in a row. Many consumers show love for their partners, family members, and even pets through gift-giving on Valentine’s Day. Popular gift items include candy or chocolate, flowers, greeting cards, jewelry, and/or dinner reservations.
The Auction Market for Kentucky’s Front Porch Staples: Mums and Pumpkins
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Oct. 31, 2022
The current picture of fall in Kentucky can be painted with harvest underway and horses racing at Keeneland racetrack, while pumpkins and mums fill the front porches of homes across the Commonwealth. Mums and pumpkins are staples of the Autumn season in our state.
A Quick Look at Kentucky’s Favorite Summertime Small Fruit: Strawberries
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on May. 31, 2022
Summertime is upon us, and strawberries are filling the refrigerators of many homes in Kentucky. Strawberries, along with blueberries and blackberries, are staple crops in the small fruits business. While small fruits can be labor intensive, they can also be very rewarding.
Pre and Post-COVID Analysis of Select Spring Crops at the Auction
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Mar. 31, 2022
Spring is on the horizon in Kentucky. Many specialty crop growers have already begun thinking about which fruits and vegetables to cultivate and the ideal market channels in which to sell. There are many market channels available to producers – an important market channel for both Kentucky and many of our growers is the produce auction.
COVID-19 and Kentucky’s Migrant and Resident Agriculture Worker Population
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate
Published on Oct. 28, 2021
COVID-19 has impacted the lives of every resident in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Many Kentuckians have dealt with school and workplace closures, supply chain malfunctions, and so, so much more over the past two years.
Cantaloupe, Watermelon, and Pumpkin Market Trends for Kentucky
By Savannah Columbia | Extension Associate and Tim Woods | Extension Professor
Published on Jan. 6, 2021
Cantaloupe, watermelons and pumpkins have been important crops for Kentucky, especially moving through the auctions. These commodities clicked on all cylinders during 2020 in the context of the pandemic. Some of the opportunities related to strong short-term prices associated with the strong demand for local products. Good grow