Five Benefits of Sourcing Local Foods for School Programs

We’re passionate about the power of sourcing local foods, especially when feeding our children in schools. It’s not just about providing fresh, nutritious food – it’s about building a healthier, more sustainable future for our communities. Here’s why local sourcing is a game-changer for school programs.

Fresher, Healthier Meals

When schools source food locally, they get access to produce that’s been harvested at peak freshness. Our frozen broccoli, for example, is picked at its prime and flash-frozen within 24-48 hours to lock in those essential vitamins and minerals. This ensures that every bite our children take is as nutritious as possible.

Supporting Local Economies

Buying from local farmers helps strengthen the local economy. Every dollar spent on locally sourced food stays within the region, supporting farmers, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. It’s a win-win situation: schools get high-quality produce, and local farmers get the support they need to continue their vital work.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Local sourcing significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. Schools help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation by choosing local produce, contributing to a healthier planet. At Harvesting Good, we pride ourselves on our transparent supply chain, ensuring that our products travel fewer miles from the field to the dining hall.

Educational Opportunities

Local sourcing opens up unique educational opportunities for your students. Schools can arrange farm visits or invite local farmers to speak about their work, teaching students where their food comes from and the importance of sustainable farming practices. These experiences foster a deeper appreciation for their food and a better understanding of the environment.

Strengthening Community Connections

Schools purchasing from local farms create and strengthen a sense of community. Parents, students, and staff feel a stronger connection to their food and the people who grow it. This connection can inspire healthier eating habits and a more significant commitment to supporting local businesses.

**BONUS BENEFIT: Ensuring Food Safety

Here’s one more benefit to purchasing locally: Local sourcing allows for greater oversight and traceability. Schools can build strong relationships with their suppliers to ensure all products meet their high safety standards. Harvesting Good is committed to transparency and traceability, so schools can trust that our frozen broccoli is of the highest quality.

Local sourcing is more than a trend—it’s a powerful way to enhance school meals, support local economies, and promote sustainability. We’re proud to partner with schools to bring our children the best of locally-grown broccoli. We can cultivate a brighter future, one broccoli floret at a time.