USDA ARS

Building a Better Trout – ARS Researchers are Using Cutting-Edge Genomics to Reel in Big Results

August 24, 2022 USDA ARS

When Dr. Tim Leeds began working at the National Center for Cool and Cold Water Aquaculture (NCCCWA) in Leetown, WV in 2008, he couldn’t have imagined that ARS would someday be doing genomic selection in fish. But today, that is exactly what is happening – with impressive results. As the Research Leader of the NCCCWA, he heads a team that is using sophisticated genomic analysis to bring healthier, stronger fish to the aquaculture industry, and to your plate. …

Boosting the Nutritional Bounty of Carrots and Onions

May 2, 2022 USDA ARS

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists are looking to beef up your salad—not with complementary slices of tender chicken, steak or other meat but rather new, improved varieties of carrot and onion. …

USDA Unveils New Disease Resistant Honeysweet Plum

April 20, 2022 USDA Agricultural Research Service

Meet the Honeysweet Plum: A virus-resistant plum that ARS hopes to bring to market soon. They are large and oblong with a very sweet, flavorful taste. …

Fall Seasonal Effects Connected to E. coli Outbreaks in Bagged Romaine

April 14, 2022 USDA ARS

Agricultural Research Service scientists have begun to uncover details underlying a pattern of seasonal E. coli O157:H7 outbreaks linked to bagged romaine lettuce. …

Saving the Future of Chocolate: New Research Aims to Stop Loss of Cacao Plant

March 17, 2022 USDA ARS

Chocolate is made from cacao beans, and research shows that 20 – 40 percent of the world’s cacao beans are lost to cacao plant diseases. This presents a major problem as the confectionary industry depends heavily on chocolate. Similarly, chocolate candies are also a major market for U.S. agricultural commodities such as peanuts, almonds, milk, and sugar. Demand for chocolate has been steadily increasing and there is a fear that one day cacao plant diseases may prevent enough cacao bean production to meet consumer need. …