When you buy local, you are supporting local farmers and growers and keeping money in our community to be reinvested with businesses and services locally. Also, supporting local foods helps to maintain and preserve farmland, green space and the lovely rural character in our community.
One of the benefits of buying local food is the freshness and flavor. Most locally grown foods are harvested within 24 hours of being purchased so there is a shorter time between harvest and food being served on your table. This reduces the chances of nutrient loss. Also, food doesn’t have to commute long distances or sit in trucks or distribution centers for long periods of time. However, it is important to remember that all fruits and vegetables have beneficial vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients. Eating a colorful variety of fruits and vegetable is important for optimal health.
If you are ready to be part of the local foods movement, consider joining the NC 10% Campaign! The NC 10% Campaign is an effort to get people and businesses to pledge to spend 10% of their existing food budget on locally grown, raised, caught or produced foods. Going local is good for you and good for our community. For more information about the 10% Campaign and pledge, visit the NC 10% website at http://www.nc10percent.com/
Click here for a flyer on Farmers Markets, Farm Stands and Stores where you can buy locally grown foods.
Click here for a Spanish version.