Researchers from the UI Obermann Center for Advanced Studies are exploring how industrialized food affects consumers in a variety of ways.

The Cmiel Research Semester — called “World Fares: Food, Culture, and Society since the Age of Industrialization” — was convened by Lauren Rabinovitz, American studies professor, and Doris Witt, English and law associate professor.

Six professors from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will investigate various facets of the food industry, ranging from how the 1893 Chicago World’s Colombian Exposition changed food production to the move from hand-ground maize to industrial wheat mills. The professors will meet often to discuss ideas and share resources or feedback.

Each participant will receive $1,500 for research expenses and will have release time to complete their studies. The project is funded through the Office of the Vice President for Research, Office of the Provost, and Avalon L. Obermann Fund.

— by Brian Stewart