Training & Outreach

Education. Empowerment. Evaluation.

We translate food safety research into hands-on training for growers, food handlers, students, and community members across the Rio Grande Valley. Our programs combine interactive workshops, field demonstrations, and practical tools that help participants apply food safety practices in their own operations and homes.

Three pillars — Education, Empowerment, and Evaluation — supporting sustainable and resilient food safety systems

Education

Workshops and trainings that build practical food safety knowledge for growers, food handlers, and consumers.

Empowerment

Hands-on activities and resources that help participants put safe practices to work in their farms, businesses, and communities.

Evaluation

Measuring the outcomes of our programs to strengthen future training and support resilient food safety systems.

Outreach in Action

Dr. Yemmireddy holding a certificate of recognition

Participants at tables during a food safety training presentation

A workshop room with participants and a speaker presenting slides

Community members attending a training session

Students demonstrating a hands-on activity to visitors

Participants gathered around a hands-on food safety activity

Participants working together on a large farm-map activity

Workshop participants reviewing illustrated activity cards

A handwashing demonstration using a UV light

Workshop participants posing for a group photo at a farm

Project team in front of a slide on closing gaps in food safety education for underserved communities in the Lower Rio Grande Valley

A large group photo of training participants

Rows of vegetables growing on a community farm

Community members seated during a training event

Participants at tables completing a training activity

A training room set up with participants at long tables