Rediscovering Local
The hidden local food network
by Chandlyr Jackson and Tyler Nelson
Timing is everything , and now seems the perfect time to add to the ongoing conversation about local food . It is no secret that the ball is already rolling ; we are in the midst of a food revolution , fighting to repair the disconnect between ourselves and the food we are consuming every day . This movement is the result of a generational shift that celebrates the fact that “ farm to table ” is no longer a stranger at our dinner table . The quest to rediscover the origins of real food , has generated a new growth and societal awakening in our food culture . A shared meal with family and friends is still the main ingredient for cherished memories .
Timing is also one of the biggest influences on what , where , and how we choose to eat our everyday meals . Lack of time often leads us to resort to fast food options or microwave dishes . We realize that it takes initiative to focus on shopping local , but it is worthwhile to make the effort in the long run . The MA Dept . of Agriculture website , www . mass . gov / agr / massgrown is a great starting point to find local farm stands , markets and other resources nearby . Just put your zip code in the massgrown map and you can see what local food is available near your home or work . Finding dinner ingredients at a local farm stand provides an opportunity to have a conversation with the farmer responsible for producing your food , which builds the bond you hold with your food and community . It also allows us to start cooking with better tasting ingredients that are more nutritious than those being shipped across the country , or even across the world .
Finding time to plan and prepare a home cooked meal can sometimes be unrealistic , but luckily the opportunities to support local food do not begin and end at the farm stand . There are alternative options such as restaurants , food trucks , events , food banks , retail outlets and market places where local food is available . Being passionate about responsibly sourced and grown food is all that we need to support this movement . Whether you love to cook , grow , or just plain eat , there is a way to be involved . One thing you can count on when you find these local places is that you are likely to have a good meal , because these small businesses are committed to fresh local food . The owners and teams are a direct representation of the brand , creating a refreshing and genuine experience for customers .
14 GROW ! BOSTON