USDA Funds Research on Alternative Crops

Four universities will study crops for food, feed, and industrial uses that may suit different growing regions.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Organic Food

Wide view of rows of young crop seedlings in a fenced research plot on flat farmland, with a weathered wooden stake in the foreground and a distant grain bin under a clear sky. — The USDA awarded $1.8 million to four universities, including Kansas State and Texas A&M, to study alternative crops for food, feed, oils, and industrial uses. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support federal funding for new crop research to help farmers earn more?

The USDA awarded $1.8 million across four research projects under its Supplemental and Alternative Crops grant program for fiscal year 2026. Kansas State University, New West Genetics Inc., Pennsylvania State University, and Texas A&M University will lead the funded work on crops for food, feed, oils, and industrial products.

Why it matters

Alternative crops are drawing interest as producers look for new markets and more stable farm income, and the research is aimed at giving growers better information before they commit land and resources. The funding covers both conventional and organic farming systems, which makes the results relevant to a broad range of operations across the country.

This is a set of four federally funded research awards totaling $1.8 million, with no study results yet reported. The projects are at an early stage, and their outcomes on crop performance and market potential have not been published.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The federal department that funds agricultural research and extension programs, including the Supplemental and Alternative Crops grant program.

Kansas State University

A land-grant university in Kansas that leads research in crop production and agricultural science.

Pennsylvania State University

A land-grant university in Pennsylvania with established agricultural research and extension programs.

Texas A&M University

A land-grant university in Texas with a long-standing agricultural research and extension system.

The details

Researchers will examine production methods, management strategies, and market potential for crops adapted to different growing regions. They will work directly with farmers and other stakeholders to share data, recommendations, and technologies, so findings are meant to reach working producers rather than stay in journals. The grant program supports crops grown for food, animal feed, oils, and industrial products.

Funding was awarded for fiscal year 2026, with the awards announced on November 6, 2026.

Health Landscape

The USDA Supplemental and Alternative Crops program funds research into crops beyond the traditional commodity mix, and these awards extend that effort to four institutions. The work addresses farm-level economics and crop diversification more than direct treatment or clinical outcomes.

If you buy from local or organic growers, these projects may eventually expand the variety of crops available to you. The research is still early, so no changes to your diet or shopping are needed now.

The takeaway

Growing interest in alternative crops reflects producers' search for new income and more sustainable products. Watch for published results from these projects to see which crops prove practical for your region.