Fresno County stands as a powerhouse in California’s agricultural landscape, boasting over 400 diverse commodities. At the heart of this vibrant food scene is the Institute for Food and Agriculture (IFA), an independent research facility playing a crucial role in propelling Fresno Food and agribusiness forward. Facing an ever-evolving and competitive global market, Fresno’s agricultural businesses benefit immensely from IFA’s dedication to applied agricultural research, hands-on learning, and impactful educational outreach.
IFA’s expert faculty and research fellows are deeply engaged in applied research opportunities, focusing specifically on the critical areas that underpin Fresno food: agribusiness, food science and nutrition, animal science, agricultural education, child and family studies, and even entomology. This comprehensive approach ensures that all facets of the Fresno food ecosystem are explored and enhanced.
Disseminating research findings is a core mission for IFA. By working closely with faculty and industry leaders, IFA ensures that the latest advancements reach those who can utilize them most effectively. Workshops, training sessions, conferences, and a variety of publications serve as vital platforms for knowledge sharing. Recent and ongoing events, from Calf Health and Livestock Artificial Insemination workshops to Salumi 101 and the International Restaurateurs Study Tour, demonstrate IFA’s commitment to practical, industry-relevant education. The annual Agribusiness Management Conference in November further solidifies IFA’s role as a central hub for Fresno food and agricultural expertise.
Whether you are involved in new product development related to Fresno food, require product testing or contract research, or need to address a specific industry research priority, IFA stands ready to collaborate. The institute offers valuable resources to conduct field and product demonstrations and determine the economic feasibility of innovative ideas within the Fresno food sector.
Centers of Excellence within Jordan College
IFA is a key component of the Jordan College’s California Agricultural Technology Institute, working alongside the Viticulture and Enology Research Center (VERC) and the Center for Irrigation Technology (CIT). This collaborative vision aims to position Fresno State University as the leading institution for applied agricultural research, particularly concerning Fresno food and agriculture. By leveraging faculty expertise, engaging students, utilizing the University Agricultural Laboratory (“the farm”), and state-of-the-art research facilities like the JARC, and fostering strong industry partnerships, these centers are shaping the future of Fresno food.
IFA actively facilitates applied research opportunities across a spectrum of disciplines vital to Fresno food, including Agribusiness, Animal Science, Agricultural Education, Child and Family Science, Food Science and Nutrition, Industrial Technology, Plant Science, and Viticulture & Enology. This interdisciplinary approach ensures holistic solutions and innovations for the Fresno food industry.
For those seeking to advance Fresno food through research, collaboration, and innovation, the Institute for Food and Agriculture at Fresno State offers unparalleled expertise and resources.
