Topeka ? Several Kansas food companies have been working to boost their export opportunities.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture says in a release Friday that five Kansas food companies participated in a forum this month in Chicago where to develop business with representatives from 30 countries.

The Kansas companies participated in sessions on free trade agreements, foreign market pricing and consumer preferences worldwide.

The companies that participated in the Food Export Midwest Marketing Forum in Chicago were CopperLeaf Gourmet of Lawrence, New Beginnings Food Company of Kansas City, Pantry Shelf of Hutchinson, Rabbit Creek Products of Louisburg and Sticky Stacks Syrup of Kansas City.

The state Department of Agriculture says it works with Food Export Midwest to provide international trade opportunities for Kansas companies.