Posted: October 10, 2025
Our lab was proud to participate in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences’ annual Legislative Research Tour, an event that brought together more than 60 government officials, industry leaders, and Penn State Ag Council members to explore how research is shaping the future of food, health, and agriculture.
Checking the hydroponic produce during the Legislative Research Tour
Our lab was proud to participate in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences' annual Legislative Research Tour, an event that brought together more than 60 government officials, industry leaders, and Penn State Ag Council members to explore how research is shaping the future of food, health, and agriculture.
During the tour, Auja Bywater (Ph.D. student in the lab) and Dr. Jasna Kovac presented research on food safety in hydroponically grown produce, highlighting strategies to ensure year-round production of nutrient-rich vegetables without compromising safety. Attendees had the opportunity to sample hydroponically grown greens and learn about the science behind safe, sustainable production systems.
The event also featured demonstrations and discussions on:
- Sustainable soil and water practices
- Chocolate research linking flavor and nutrition
- Sensory evaluation and healthier food development
- Animal health and biosecurity innovations
This collaborative effort underscores the importance of partnerships between government, industry, and academia in advancing agriculture and public health for future generations.
Our lab is committed to developing innovative solutions that make fresh, safe food accessible year-round.
