University of Massachusetts Amherst Launches $120 Million Future of Food Initiative
New England Council member University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is launching a $120 million Future of Food initiative aimed at addressing challenges facing the global food system, including climate change, sustainability, food safety and a growing population. The initiative will support new research facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration and faculty positions focused on the future of food and agriculture.
The initiative includes plans for a new 36,000-square-foot Paul and Diana Manning Food Innovation Hub, which is expected to break ground in late 2027. The facility will include testing labs, kitchens, and collaborative research spaces. Faculty and external partners will study areas including food safety and security, nutrition, food processing, sustainable agriculture and food production.
“UMass Amherst—with the nation’s number-one programs in food science and agriculture sciences—is uniquely positioned to solve the biggest, most critical challenges facing the world’s food system and promote innovative and transformative solutions to capitalize on opportunities that benefit the common good,” said UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier A. Reyes. “UMass is committed to supporting cutting-edge research, providing hands-on student training and fostering external partnerships to drive transformative solutions that strengthen climate-resilient agriculture, expand food equity and production, and create a healthier, more sustainable future of food for all.”
The New England Council congratulates the University of Massachusetts Amherst for launching this initiative and advancing research, education and collaboration focused on the future of the food system.
Read more: UMass Amherst Launches Historic, Transformational $120 Million Future of Food Initiative