Why

Purchasing locally grown food is a great marketing tool. List local farms on your menu to let your diners know that you support local farmers and are proud to use their products.

Locally grown food is fresh, tastes fantastic and retains its nutrients longer. Add in the fact that because fresher foods last longer, they create less waste.  We are sure you will agree, buying local is economical and saves you money.

By purchasing locally grown foods for your menu, you are not only supporting area farmers and your community, but you are promoting a cleaner environment as well.

It’s a win/win for everyone. You prepare and serve the area’s freshest foods. Your customers are satisfied and coming back for more. And local farmers sing your praises for buying their crops. It’s a simple choice. Buy local.

How

Make a commitment to purchasing directly from your local farmers. It may take an extra phone call or two, but its worth the added quality, value and the positive experience of helping your community.

Plan seasonal menus to accommodate the changes in weather and availability. Often seasonal foods are less expensive when bought locally.

Request local food from your vendors. Your vendors can let you know which farmers they buy from. Customers would love to know where their food came from.

Contact local farmers directly through the Feast DownEast Farm to Chef Directory. Work one-on-one with your farmers.

Participate as a buyer for the SENC FOODS Farmer Cooperative by contacting Renee Eli at elir@uncw.edu 828-506-5600