The Food Marketing Institute estimates online grocery sales will reach some $100 billion by 2025. K-State Research and Extension nutrition specialist Sandy Procter says consumers may ultimately want both online and in-person grocery shopping options.

With recalls of potentially-contaminated food becoming more common, Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee provides food safety tips that can help lower your risk of exposure to foodborne illness.

Americans’ spending on back-to-school items for kids in grades K-12 and college students is projected to reach $82.8 billion this year, down from last year’s estimated spending of $83.6 billion. K-State Research and Extension family resource management specialist Elizabeth Kiss suggests families make a prioritized list of the “must-have” items and purchase those first.

Johnson County 4-H was awarded one of five community-based grants through Science Matters, a national program created by Bayer and National 4-H, to foster an interest in science. Johnson County Extension director Tara Markley and 4-H volunteer Nancy Bergdall discuss how this grant helped 15 local teenagers identify three science-based challenges and develop solutions that addressed those issues.

A lack of options can make securing child care difficult. K-State Research and Extension child development specialist Bradford Wiles shares insights from focus groups and anonymous surveys of more than 400 adults on the subject of child care.

Bradford Wiles, an assistant professor and Extension specialist at Kansas State University, says when children learn to take another person’s perspective and then empathize they are much better equipped to successfully manage peer and adult interactions.

Produce that’s fresh from the garden typically tops the list of reasons for shopping at farmers markets. K-State Research and Extension food scientist Karen Blakeslee discusses the safe handling of produce, and preserving fresh fruits and vegetables.

K-State Research and Extension farm safety specialist Kerri Ebert says farmers should be mindful of fatigue that may increase the risk of farm-related accidents and motorists should watch for heavy, slow-moving machinery for the next several weeks.

The summer months are a perfect time to try new fruits and vegetables. K-State Research and Extension nutrition specialist Sandy Procter looks at eight healthy summer fruits, vegetables and drinks that taste great and offer a variety of health benefits.

David Procter, Director for Engagement and Community Development, says the Sixth National Rural Grocery Summit being held later this month will focus on how best to sustain rural grocery stores and improve the health of those living in rural communities.