Iowa Initiative Boosts Value Added Fruit and Vegetable Processing

By Andi Anderson

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is leading a new statewide initiative that supports fruit and vegetable processing through innovation and education.

This effort focuses on helping farmers and small businesses create value added products that can improve income and strengthen Iowa’s local food system.

At the center of this initiative is the Crop Cart, a mobile fruit and vegetable processing unit. The cart brings modern equipment and learning opportunities directly to communities across the state. It allows farmers, food entrepreneurs, and organizations to explore new product ideas, conduct taste testing, and participate in hands-on educational programs.

The initiative builds on work that began in 2017 when Extension teams identified major challenges faced by producers. Many communities lacked access to processing equipment, storage, and distribution systems.

These gaps made it difficult for farmers and food businesses to extend shelf life and increase profitability through value added products.

To address this challenge, a mobile processing cart was first tested in 2021. After receiving positive feedback, Extension teams developed an improved version in 2025.

The enhanced Crop Cart offers greater flexibility and usability for educational and business development purposes.

Courtney Long, food systems program manager with ISU Extension and Outreach, highlighted its value, stating, “The Crop Cart offers a flexible, accessible entry point for local producers and businesses to consider new product development,” and added, “The cart allows users to explore value-added opportunities and gain hands-on experience with minimal input costs up front.”

Currently, three Crop Carts are available and located in Cass, Washington, and Winneshiek counties. Community organizations and local food businesses are encouraged to request use of the carts through their county extension offices.

The Crop Carts support a wide variety of programming. These include food safety training, value added product development, nutrition education, recipe testing, and public taste testing events. Intended users range from aspiring entrepreneurs and farmers to educators, event planners, and community partners.

Each Crop Cart is fully equipped for fresh produce processing, making it easier for participants to turn ideas into practical products. This initiative reflects Extension’s commitment to innovation, education, and community support.

Through the Crop Cart program, Iowa State University Extension continues to help strengthen local food systems, encourage entrepreneurship, and expand opportunities for value added agriculture across the state.

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