Frolicking, Foraging, and Food Miling at Food Lion

by Danny Gass, Cayden Polk, and Asher Ryan

Before we delve into our Gov School Food Lion trip, we must start with the night before October 31st. Julia Cicatko, a brilliant Junior at Gov School, proposed an idea that would change the course of the field trip. She suggested that everyone wear a Halloween costume since the Food Lion field trip happened to fall on the fated holiday. Multiple MRGS Juniors followed Julia’s suggestions and dressed up for the field trip.

As we filed into Gov School on the morning of the field trip, we were assigned groups by our fearless leaders, Mrs. Bates and Mrs. Klus. I (Danny Gass) was assigned to a group with Victoria Shoop and Asher Ryan (who was unfortunately absent). The absence of my pal Asher saddened me, but it was a great chance to work with someone new. Each group was assigned multiple fruits, vegetables, herbs, and nuts to research in the local Food Lion. We were going to collect data about our group’s product to create an infographic further down the road. In this infographic, we used the collected data to calculate the average distance the produce traveled (food miles) and how much carbon was emitted because of the food distribution. We tied food miles and carbon emissions together and showed how different aspects of the produce (organic/conventional, domesticity, etc) would affect each.

We arrived at the store, got in our groups, and BOOM: straight to work. We were busy bees as we foraged through the produce section and collected our data. Every group completed their research with plenty of time to spare on the field trip. This allowed the students to partake in some shenanigans and frolic around the store to their heart’s desire. Students fondly remember this field trip, like astute Junior Jake Eckelman: “The field trip started off educational and pretty solid. After we were finished, I decided to roam around the store with my bestest buddy, Danny Gass. We ended up buying cereal and milk, which was straight fire.” 

Many students bought food in their free time, like star student Bodie Lohr: “I loved it. I enjoyed downing a can of whipped cream and sharing donuts with my friends.” Bodie could use his extra time to bond with his friends through sharing food and his exceptional skill of consuming an entire can of whipped cream without stopping.

Students found that this field trip connected them not only with their classmates but also with their local community. It was astounding to see all of the different sources of local produce. As charismatic student Peyton Kenee eloquently said, “It made me feel connected to my local community. The information about strawberries was mind-blowing.” This field trip enabled each group to learn more about food production and processing. 

The overall experience at Food Lion was enjoyable, a connection to the local community, an excellent opportunity to work with new people, a bonding experience with our peers, and a fantastic place to purchase breakfast food at 9:00 a.m. We are so grateful that we had the chance to participate and learn from this field trip.