Eat Local Challenge
I’m in; how about you?
From Twin Cities Food Coop:
Eat Local Challenge to launch Aug. 15
You likely know the benefits of eating local food: it’s good for the local economy, the environment and for family farmers who adhere to sustainable farming techniques. Plus, you and your family enjoy food that’s fresher and more flavorful.
With so many good reasons to put local food on your family’s table, the 12 Twin Cities natural food co-ops are banding together and inviting their members, shoppers and community residents to take the Eat Local Challenge.
The challenge encourages community members to try to commit to consuming 80 percent of their diet — or four out of five food items–from local sources from Aug. 15 through Sept. 15 (a four-week period that just happens to be during peak harvest season for many produce items).
But don’t think strictly about fruit and vegetables. At your co-op, you’ll find a number of locally produced dairy, cheese, bakery, herbs and meat/poultry items as well. Just look for the round, green and black “Local” sticker or ask any co-op staff person for assistance.
We’re in the process of creating a number of in-store and online materials — including sample menus, shopping lists and in-season produce lists — to help you succeed. They’ll be available here and at your co-op by Aug. 13, so keep an eye out for them. Plus, we’re creating an online blog, which you’ll find on this website, so you can share your local food experience with others in the community.
We’re hoping this will be a fun, educational experience — one you may choose to continue beyond the “official” four-week challenge. And remember, there’s no contract to sign; it’s simply an honor-based system designed to help all of us make wise, thoughtful choices about the food we eat. So won’t you join us by taking the Eat Local Challenge?