The Food Systems Consortium (FSC) evolved from the Food Systems Professions Education (FSPE) Initiative begun by and partially funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to effect changes in educational programs throughout the United States to better prepare food systems professionals to be responsive to the dynamic and complex food systems issues of the 21st century. The Mid-Atlantic Consortium (MAC) was the precursor to this Food Systems Consortium (FSC), one of 14 such initiatives working to meet this challenge. 

A plentiful, safe, and accessible food system is one of the most important challenges we face as we move into the 21st century. Issues such as hunger, food safety, plant and animal agriculture, and environmental sustainability affect us all. Engaging the educational system to address these issues helps people to meet current challenges and prepare for any new demands on the horizon.