From farmer’s markets to roadside stands to local farms and other venues, local residents will have many opportunities available to them to explore and experience local food during Local Food Week, July 29-Aug. 7, 2022.
“Local Food Week is a 10-day celebration of Northeast Indiana’s farms, markets, artisan food producers, restaurants, and other businesses & organizations that bring local food from Our Land to Our Tables,” according to Northeast Indiana Local Food Network at www.neifood.org. “The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network launched Local Food Week in 2020 to create an opportunity for our region to visit and connect with those who grow, sell, serve and support the local food we all love.”
Local Food Week also highlights activities and special events on local farms. See all that the week has to offer from farms in 11 northeast Indiana counties on their website.
Why local food?
Buying food locally reduces the shipping and handling needs to get food to consumers. It also helps the local economy by offering local producers an opportunity to grow and market their own food products. And, it offers consumers what may be more nutrient-dense food options.
There has been a growing movement for farm-to-school efforts (local food for schools) and farm-to-fork efforts (local food for restaurants and local residents). Many of these programs introduce people from all walks of life to new fruits and vegetables. It is an educational opportunity to learn how food is grown, and it may also help consumers connect directly with producers. Finally, people can enjoy delicious locally-grown food.
Other venues such as wineries, breweries, livestock farms, and orchards may offer local agri-tourism opportunities along with their consumable products.
Explore and experience local food this week!