4 things millennials should know (and love!) about food & farming

This post was originally published on GMO Answers' Medium page.

“Millennial,” a term coined by researchers Neil Howe and William Strauss in their book “Millennials Rising,” generally refers to the generation of people born between the early 1980s and 1990s.

Millennials deserve a huge shout-out for their intense interest in food. People of all generations, but particularly millennials, are passionate about food. For this generation, food is self-expression and creativity, as well as sustenance. This is reflected on social media, where the food boards are the most popular boards on Pinterest. Author Eve Turow theorizes that in the current digital era, many people latch onto food as something that engages all the senses and brings people together in physical space.

Millennials are also increasingly passionate about farming and USDA data shows a rise in farming among young people ages 25 to 36 between 2007 and 2012. A recent survey by the National Young Farmer Coalition found that millennial farmers are inclined toward sustainable practices, want to change the way food is produced, and are concerned about the food system’s impact on the environment.  

A new year is a time for reflection and goal-setting. Here are a few things I would like my fellow millennials to know in 2018:

1. Farmers and Millennials Are on the Same Page!

We both want the same things - healthy, real food that is the highest quality possible for ourselves and our families. We both want to not only preserve, but improve our environment with safe and sustainable farming practices that will ensure a safe food supply for generations to come. Both farmers and millennials love the environment and understand the value of the land. It is in farmers’ best interest to be good stewards of the land because they often pass it down generation after generation, and often live on the land where they farm.

2. Science in Agriculture is a Great Thing for Everyone!

Science has done incredible things in many areas including medicine, computer technology and engineering, just to name a few. Agriculture and food production is no exception! People want to feel connected to their food, its production and those who grow it. Science in agriculture is something to celebrate.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pesticide use are just a few of the ways agricultural biotechnology makes it possible to reach our common goals of sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. Science in farming should be embraced, not feared. Explore its exciting potential!

3. Farmers Want to Talk to You!

Millennials don’t want to feel disconnected from the people who grow their food, and farmers want to talk to millennials! We farmers are excited that you’re excited about your food. This year, let’s resolve to reach out and talk directly to each other. When you have a question about your food and how it is produced, ask a farmer! We would love to show you our farms, whether through pictures on social media or on-farm visits. Don’t rely on those in social media and elsewhere who propagate misinformation about farmers and agriculture, and create barriers. Let’s facilitate our own discussions! We care about your ideas and views, and we want to work with you!  

4. Consider a Career in Agriculture — We Need You!

Farmers make up less than two percent of the U.S. population. We need more farmers. However, agriculture is comprised of many people doing many different things. Agronomists, researchers, accountants, drivers, scientists, and manufacturers are just a few of the many occupations that make American agriculture go. Read about what science can do in agriculture and see it for yourself. Get involved and consider a career in Ag, because Ag needs you!