Millions of Illinois consumers learn about the sustainability of corn bioplastic

IL Corn partnered with six restaurants in the Chicago area to take over their takeout, replacing traditional takeout containers with corn-based alternatives. This project was designed to help Chicago consumers understand how corn and corn co-products are an important solution to global challenges and it was a success.

The project is an extension of the Illinois Farm Families project. Illinois Farm Families is a coalition of Illinois Beef Association, IL Corn, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Soybean Association, and Midwest Dairy that works to connect farmers and non-farmers. Ultimately, the coalition aims to build trust in Illinois farmers that they are growing food with care.

Here are the results.

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Kenny Hartman, Jr.: A Lifetime of Leadership and a Legacy for Future Farmers

By Tara Desmond • December 11, 2025

Interview with former NCGA President Kenny Hartman, Jr., reflecting on decades of service to Illinois corn farmers, major policy accomplishments, and why young farmers should get involved to shape the future of agriculture.

IL Corn office

Japanese Media Visit Highlights Illinois Corn’s Role in Global Biofuel Future

By U.S. Grains & Bioproducts Council & IL Corn • December 11, 2025

Illinois corn was on full display as a delegation of Japanese journalists toured the U.S. biofuels value chain to better understand how American corn and corn ethanol contribute to a lower-carbon energy future.

Ilinois group n

Illinois Agriculture Unites to Donate Over 109,000 Pounds of Pork to Food Banks Across the State

By Tara Desmond • December 11, 2025

Illinois agriculture is once again stepping up to fight hunger.

Rows of green crops in a field at sunset, with the sun's rays shining through the clouds.

$12 Billion in Bridge Farm Aid for Farmers

By Lyndi Allen • December 10, 2025

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Trump Administration announced a one-time package of $12 billion in “bridge payments” to support American farmers.

CEO Justin Brown

LAKRIL: Turning Corn Into Tomorrow’s Green Chemicals

By Tara Desmond • December 10, 2025

Lakril CEO Justin Brown explains how corn-based sugars become low-carbon acrylic acid, creating new markets for farmers as the company expands in Illinois.

Deer by a stream with

Illinois Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

December 5, 2025

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award.The award honors farmers who go above and beyond in their management of their working land.