Iowa State University (ISU), located in Ames, will be hosting its second annual Bacon Expo on Saturday, Nov. 8. Participants can learn about bacon production in Iowa, sample a variety of bacon goods and enjoy live performances, including a singing competition called Bacon Voice.
The expo originated when ISU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences student council proposed that they should arrange an event that would teach people the origins of their food, seeing how they were located in the number one pork-producing state in the country.
For bacon fans, the expo will allow participants to sample bacon-themed foods.
“Attendees can expect to sample bacon that has been subject to a variety of different
curing and smoking techniques. In addition to that, we expect to have some delicious novelty items as well that include bacon, such as bacon fudge and bacon cheese curds,” said Drew Mogler, Vender Co-Chair. Last year, the bacon crowd-pleaser was ISU’s Block and Bridle Club’s barbeque bacon.
Although the Executive Board hopes visitors will come to sample its bacon-themed goods, the real purpose behind the expo extends beyond tasting food.
“People come for the bacon samples such as bacon cheese curds, bacon-wrapped jalapeños and bacon cupcakes, yet we want them to leave with a better understanding of pork production,” said Hannah Darr, one of the General Tri-Chairs on the Executive Board.
Education Chair Lexi Marek, having grown up on her family’s farm, echoed Darr’s statements, noting that it is important for attendees to learn more about pork production since the industry has a huge impact on the state.
“We want to inform attendees about the pork industry as a whole and where their food comes from,” Marek said.
The event will also feature entertainment, most notably their singing competition Bacon Voice.
“We wanted to give them the opportunity to showcase their talents at the Bacon Expo and provide excellent live entertainment for event attendees.” said Rachel Lium, one of the Entertainment Co-Chairs.
To ensure that the food at the event is held to the highest safety standards, the board is working with ISU dining officials to ensure the proper cooking, handling and distribution of bacon.
Darr has ensured the organized and efficient management of the expo, citing the passion and dedication of the board as a factor.
“Although I may be biased … I think this is one of the best teams of students to plan this event as they are very passionate about their futures in the agriculture industry and will be the next leaders in truly feeding the world,” Darr said.
Tickets can be purchased online at Midwestix for $8, or at the door for $12, and the expo will be running from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow in ISU’s Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center.
