The Institute of Sustainable Nutrition (TIOSN) will host a free open house at Holcomb Farm in West Granby on June 25 from 6:30 to 8pm. TIOSN is inviting interested visitors to meet the staff and students, tour the farm and share some food while learning about its unique one-year certification program.

The experiential and interactive program, which is currently in the middle of its first year, is designed to connect individuals to their food and where it comes from. Students learn about the plant model, conduct soil testing, plant garlic, start seeds and tend crops as they grow. They build and keep a beehive as well as forage for wild food to prepare at the farm. In addition to learning about the cultural and scientific aspects of nutrition, students practice mindful eating and enjoy meals prepared together.

“We have made teas, tonics and kitchen medicine to keep us healthy through the cold and flu season, fermented foods to develop a healthy human microbiome, had a visit and workshop with Sandor Katz and dehydrated foods for storage and eating,” says Institute founder Joan Palmer.

TIOSN is now accepting applications for its 2014-2015 class. 

For open house reservations or for more information, call 860-764-9070 or visit tiosn.com. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes to the open house. Holcomb Farm is located at 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby. See ad, page 25.