Farm to Table Movement
There are many benefits of buying locally and supporting your community farmers.
Local produce is significantly fresher than others that you will find at supermarkets. That is because supermarket food is most often harvested earlier in the season and then transported from other states or countries. On the other hand, locally grown produce is most likely picked and harvested just a day or two prior to your purchase. *
According to Michigan State University, “Local food has a shorter time between harvest and your table, and it is less likely that the nutrient value has decreased. Food imported from far-away states and countries is often older, has traveled and sits in distribution centers before it gets to your store” (par. 5).
Purchasing locally grown food supports the community and environment as well. Farmland and open space in the community is maintained and the money stays local. *
Our farmers work hard to provide us with healthy, delicious produce. We encourage you to enjoy it!
Check out some delicious recipes that use fresh, local Michigan products below!
Stone Fruit Cobbler: Stone Fruit Cobbler - MI Ag Council (michigangrown.org)
Pulled Pork Salad with Peaches: Pulled Pork Salad with Peaches - MI Ag Council (michigangrown.org)
Sweet Heat Street Beef Tacos: Sweet Heat Street Beef Tacos - MI Ag Council (michigangrown.org)
Michigan Summer Farm Bounty Salad: Michigan Summer Farm Bounty Salad - MI Ag Council (michigangrown.org)
*Reference 7 benefits of eating local foods - Community Food Systems (msu.edu)