UNH Program, First in the Nation

The University of NH has launched an EcoGastronomy program that takes students to the field, the kitchen, the lab and Italy to study the complexities of sustainable food systems. The EcoGastronomy dual major is the first such program at any U.S. university.

We are seeing growing student interest in food and sustainability and an eagerness to understand and connect with the local, regional and global food system, says Joanne Curran-Celentano, professor of nutritional sciences at UNH and one of the faculty founders. EcoGastronomy is designed to engage students in this deeper meaning of eating and to position them to become informed food citizens.

UNH hospitality management students who want to graduate with an edge are interested in the dual major in EcoGastronomy because it sets them apart in a competitive industry, says Dan Winans, faculty coordinator.