Library Guides: Food Science and Human Nutrition Research Guide: Local Foods

Introduction to Local Foods

Local Food Systems: Concepts, Impacts, Issues
This is an 87 page book published by the USDA in 2011. It is a good introduction to the concept of "local food" - includes multiple definitions, and gives overview of the benefits, demand for, and government support of the industry.

One of the frequently debated issues in nutrition is the fresh food versus transported, processed or frozen food. To learn more about the local foods movement in Iowa or locate food sources for fresh foods some of the following links may be of interest.

Economic Impacts of Local Food (Leopold Center)
This initiative focuses on market-based approaches that reward Iowa farmers for protecting Iowa’s water resources while producing highly differentiated food, fiber, or energy products of superior quality. The Initiative will research and test new marketing strategies and business structures that allow Iowa’s farmers to retain more of the value for these food, fiber, or energy products.
Farm to Folk Collaborative
The Farm to Folk Collaborative (F2F) connects farmers using sustainable methods of agriculture with central Iowa consumers seeking fresh, nutritious, locally grown farm products. They also educate the surrounding community about farm and food issues.
Farm to School
Farm to School programs are popping up all over the U.S. These programs connect schools with local farms with the objectives of serving healthy meals in school cafeterias, improving student nutrition, providing health and nutrition education opportunities that will last a lifetime, and supporting local small farmers.
Learning About Local at ISU: A Resource Guide to Iowa Organizations and Programs Supporting Local and Regional Food Systems
This is a directory (published by the Leopold Center) of organizations, programs, funders and consultants that offer various forms of assistance for Iowa producers, processors, food retailers and communities interested in local and regional food systems.
LocalHarvest
LocalHarvest connects people looking for good food with the farmers who produce it. Searchable directory of food producers - easy to limit by geographic area.

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