URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Meat Science Laboratory on the U of I’s campus, part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, will host State Fair Champions on Display, a special public event showcasing the Grand Champion and Land of Lincoln Champion pigs, lambs, goats, and beef cattle from the 2025 Illinois State Fair.

Visitors at the Meat Science Laboratory will have the chance to view the champions in the coolers before processing begins. Faculty, staff, and students at the lab will later prepare the meat to the highest standards of quality cand care before donating it to support families and communities across Illinois.

These award-winning animals were auctioned earlier this month at the annual Governor’s Sale of Champions, which recognizes the top Illinois 4-H youth livestock exhibitors and invests in the next generation of agricultural leaders. Through an agreement with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the Meat Science Laboratory processes these animals, and the meat is donated to Feeding Illinois food banks.

The event connects the show ring to the food system and demonstrates the U of I’s land-grant mission in action by connecting 4-H youth achievements, Illinois Extension education, and the work of the Meat Science Laboratory to advance food security and serve people across Illinois.