From food labels to menu item descriptions, the words “locally sourced” seem to be popping up more and more. Consumers see these words, value them, and even sometimes pay a premium for them, but their true meaning is sometimes forgotten.
Restaurateurs, grocery stores, and customers use the term to describe or label food products that are produced within the area. Some define that area as within a 10 mile radius, while others claim that vicinity can be up to 150 miles. Regardless, it’s safe to assume any locally sourced products or ingredients are grown within miles of where they’re being consumed and not shipped in from another country.
Locally sourced foods are fresh and eco-friendly options. Fresh food can’t travel a great distance and therefore helps to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Supporting small farmers also keeps them in business, which prevents them from selling their land to developers. Consumers get a higher level of nutrients from locally grown foods simply due to the fact that they are spending less time in transit. And people can often see, taste, and feel the ‘fresh’ difference.
Consumers are increasingly more aware and inquisitive about the foods we put in our bodies. While ‘buying local’ is certainly a major trend of the time, it is more than just a fad. For local restaurants, it can be a major selling point too.
Here at Revere Meat Co. we believe transparency and accountability are just as important as customer service. To us, ‘locally sourced’ and ‘responsible farming’ are more than just catch phrases. We strive to create meaningful relationships with our customers and suppliers to improve the quality of the industry for everyone.