Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks (UADA) Verified listing

Small to mid-sized farms often struggle to make a profit with the conventional marketing of fresh crops in traditional markets. These producers often seek other markets in an attempt to increase profits and keep locally-grown food in the regional food systems. Small, specialty crop farmers mostly rely on seasonal retail outlets as a way to sell their crops. Creating processed, value-added foods from these crops allows producers to sell products year-round. It also allows producers to use excess crops to create sustainable local food systems. The Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks (AFIC@MCO) provides opportunities in developing these value-added products. Food entrepreneurs have access to the technical expertise of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture’s Department of Food Science, and other departments within the Division of Agriculture and University of Arkansas community.