Join the 2025 Crunch Off: Celebrate Local Food with SDSU Extension!

BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension is excited to announce the 2025 South Dakota Crunch Off. This event happens every October during National Farm to School Month. It shines a spotlight on farm-to-school programs while celebrating our local produce.

Anyone can join in! Just take a bite out of a locally grown food item and share your experience. You can register your participation on the SDSU Extension site by searching for “crunch.” Teams can include schools, childcare centers, offices, and families.

To get involved, form a team, select a crunchable item, and plan your event. Activities can take place from September 15 to October 31, but remember to register so your crunch counts!

Jessica Meuleners, a Nutrition Field Specialist at SDSU Extension, expressed, “This event encourages healthy eating and supports local agriculture. We want to honor Farm to School Month and showcase the amazing food options in our state.”

Once you’ve crunched, don’t forget to post about it on social media with the hashtags #SoDakCrunch and #MountainPlainsCrunch. Promotional materials are available on the SDSU Extension event page.

The Crunch Off is part of a larger competition among several states, including Colorado, Missouri, and Nebraska. In 2023, South Dakota recorded 2,749 crunches; the numbers jumped to 6,562 in 2024. Meuleners hopes to see even more participation in 2025, fostering a deeper understanding of local food systems.

Recent studies show that local farms can significantly boost community health by reducing food deserts and encouraging healthier eating habits. Connecting with local producers can open doors to fresh, nutritious options that benefit both the community and the environment.

“This event is a chance to explore new foods and strengthen ties with local farmers,” Meuleners added. It’s more than just a crunch; it’s a celebration of what South Dakota has to offer.

–SDSU Extension

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