The mission of the Interdisciplinary Center for Food Security is to better understand and address the causes and consequences of hunger and food insecurity. Through research, engagement, and teaching we seek to build food secure communities in Missouri and beyond.

The research of the center informs policy makers, researchers, government agencies, and a variety of local, regional, and statewide non-profits. Notable projects include the recently published Missouri Hunger Atlas 2023 and Food Assistance and Hunger in the Heartland. The center also played an important role in the Missouri Food Security Task Force and creation of its final report.

Engagement efforts, such as Missouri EATs, work to include community members directly in both the planning and design of projects to create healthy, resilient, and equitable food systems. The center also partners with the University of Missouri Extension to host the Missouri Food Systems Network, a resource for local and regional food systems stakeholders working on community-based initiatives.

Our teaching focus includes guest lectures, public speaking engagements, and the inclusion of undergraduate and graduate students in center projects.

Please feel free to contact us for additional information.