Extension (Outreach & Engagement)

The Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is deeply committed to extending university research and expertise beyond campus. Rooted in our land-grant mission, our extension and outreach activities support Nebraska’s food system while also contributing to national and international food safety, nutrition, and public health efforts. Through innovative partnerships, training programs, statewide networks, and applied research translation, our faculty and staff help strengthen food systems, informing decision-making, and enhance community well-being locally, nationally, and globally

Supporting Industry Growth and Innovation

The Department of Food Science and Technology serves as a hub for research translation and industry collaboration. We provide confidential technical assistance, pilot-scale production facilities, analytical services, to help companies—from Nebraska-based to national and international food entrepreneurs and established manufacturers—develop, scale, and commercialize safe, high-quality, and economically viable food products. These partnerships drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth throughout Nebraska and beyond.

Advancing Food Safety through Education, Research Translation, and Policy Support

Food safety is at the core of our extension mission. The department offers a variety of workshops, certifications, and continuing education opportunities—including ServSafe® training and specialized programs in processing technologies and quality assurance. These efforts ensure a skilled workforce prepared to meet the highest industry standards while promoting safe and sustainable food systems.

Beyond training and education programs, our faculty leverage Nebraska-supported research to provide scientific expertise to national regulatory agencies, advisory boards, and international organizations, helping inform evidence-based food safety guidance and standards that protect Nebraska consumers and support market access, trade, and regulatory clarity for the state’s food and agricultural sectors.

Strengthening Communities through Nutrition and Education

In collaboration with Nebraska Extension, our faculty support community-based programs that improve nutrition, food access, and health outcomes across the state.

Statewide, National, and Global Partnerships and Impact

Working alongside Nebraska Extension’s statewide network, our department delivers science-based education, technical expertise, and business support to communities across all 93 counties. At the same time, our faculty engage in national and international collaborations that address emerging food safety challenges, support regulatory efforts, and contribute to global food system resilience.

This integrated approach ensures that Nebraskans benefit directly from university research and expertise while also positioning the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska system as a trusted contributor to food safety, well-being, and public health efforts beyond state boarders.