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Iowa's Food Supply Chain Amid Pandemic

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Iowa grocery stores emphasize that empty shelves do not mean they are out of food. Instead, the supply chains have slowed down and are working to meet the increase in demand.

While much of our economy has ground to a halt, grocery store operations are ramping up amid the coronavirus pandemic. There is not a food shortage. Rather, grocers and markets are trying to meet increased demand and have had difficulties stocking shelves in a timely manner as supply chains have slowed. Additionally, stores have adjusted hours and are taking precautions to create a safe environment for shoppers and workers.

On this edition of River to River, Ben Kieffer walks listeners through the Iowa food supply chain beginning with pork production, followed by transportation, corporate grocers and rural markets.

Guests:

Mike Paustian, president, Iowa Pork Producers

Theo Ramsey, owner, Ramsey's Market in Lenox

Christina Gayman, director of public relations, Hy-Vee

Michelle Hurd, president, Iowa Grocery Industry Association

Rick Brewer was a producer for IPR's Talk of Iowa and River to River
Ben Kieffer is the host of IPR's River to River