Now more than ever , these local food businesses are becoming viable , with an increasing customer base demanding transparency in where their food comes from and how it is produced . In Boston , we now see an interconnected local food network of producers , providers and deliverers . There are many opportunities to access this network and realize that your contributions to these businesses create a ripple effect , benefitting the local economy , environment and your personal health . Eating at a restaurant that sources from local farms helps everyone from the farmer to the chef stay in business , cut down on transportation emissions , and craft a meal with fresher , unprocessed ingredients .
A producer is anyone with the means to grow or generate a food product . This includes farms growing crops , raising meat , or dairy products as well as businesses such as breweries , cheese makers , and coffee roasters , which create specialty products . These businesses are a direct connection to local food . Another important category to consider is local delivery . The deliverers within the Boston area bring food directly from the producer to your doorstep or an accessible , communal space . Whether it is a CSA program or catered meal service , local delivery is a great option for accessing your local food network while running on a tight schedule .
The Boston Public Market is a great place to start shopping locally in Boston . This market connects you with over 40 local venders and an opportunity to meet farmers , fishermongers and other food producers throughout New England . If you are looking for a new restaurant , check out b . good for a fresh local meal . This provider is setting a forward thinking example of transparency by showing where their food comes from , displayed on a large map across the wall within the restaurants , and sharing the personal stories of the producers within their food network . For example , during the growing season b . good sources tomatoes grown by Green City Growers . The tomatoes are grown in a roof top garden right here in Boston ! It is easy to see how stopping for dinner at b . good supports the restaurant as a provider as well as supporting
Green City Growers as a producer , and everyone involved is contributing to a sustainable system of food production . As for deliverers , Cuisine en Locale is worth looking into and offers a readymade meal CSA . Prepared with seasonal local ingredients , you can have home cooked meals delivered right to your door . City Feed and Supply is a great and unique food retailer in Jamaica Plain . They offer a large stock of local and organic products with informative labels detailing their source .
The Metro Boston area is full of opportunities to connect with local food and the people who make local food their livelihood . All it takes is one visit to a new market or restaurant and your connection to the local food world will begin ! There are many producers , providers , and deliverers contributing to a sustainable food system within the region , start asking where your food comes from and find out where to get the freshest food with the lowest carbon footprint easily and affordably .
Chandlyr Jackson and Tyler Nelson , cofounders of The Green Beat :
A community based brand helping people connect with local food in the Urban Environment .
thegreenbeat . com
GROW ! BOSTON
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