Consumer concerns about the impact food production practices may have on their long-term health or the health of the planet abound. Increasingly, farmers, ranchers and the entire food chain are working to address these concerns by offering more information and answering questions, including rating systems and sharing stories about how a particular food product is sourced.

The Food Dialogues: Minneapolis will bring together a panel of leaders in the food space, including food and retail executives, and farmers for a conversation about what more can be done to bridge the information gap between food production practices, consumer concerns on health and the environment and the choices that are being made when sourcing food products. This event, scheduled for Aug. 11, will be moderated by Bloomberg agriculture policy journalist and Minnesota native, Alan Bjerga.

“Farmers, ranchers and food executives have the ability to be even more connected to consumers than ever before,” said Gene Stoel, Soybean Grower and MN Soybean Research and Promotion Council Board Member. “Yet, more must and can be done. This Food Dialogue panel discussion will tackle tough questions related to food production – from GMO safety to animal welfare. Agriculturalists are seeking opportunities to speak directly with food companies, key decision makers and ultimately the consumer. Every time food production practices are discussed, we would like to be in the conversation.”

The Food Dialogues: Minneapolis is co-sponsored by the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, Nebraska Soybean Board and the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance. The Aug. 11 event will be held at the Mill City Museum, with check-in and a networking reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. CT. The panel discussion will begin at 7 p.m. CT. For more details and to register to attend this event, click here.