Bridging the Gap From Farm to Table Why Today's Youth are Disconnected and How Extension Can Reconnect Them

Despite growing interest in food sustainability, many youth remain unaware of where their food comes from and how it reaches their plates. The farm-to-table movement, intended to connect consumers with local producers, has not effectively engaged the youth demographic. This article advocates for Extension to reframe agricultural education by integrating farm-to-table literacy into youth programs, especially in non-rural areas. It outlines factors contributing to youth disengagement and challenges Extension to take a proactive role in cultivating a generation that not only consumes food but understands its origins, processes, and sustainability implications.