By Kristin Hillery
More and more restaurants are starting to realize the benefits of buying local. Really, why order a case of romaine hearts that were picked and packaged and placed on a truck over a week ago when you could get produce that was still growing on a farm two days ago? And it goes without saying that being able to form a real relationship with the farmers who grow the food you serve means you know you’re getting a far superior product.
Customers want to see local food served at the restaurants they go to, and they’re willing to pay more for it because they know it’ll be tastier, healthier, and just better all around. Not yet convinced? Check out these four big reasons why you should commit to buying local.
1. Local food supports and builds your community
When you buy from a local farmer, that money is going to help support his or her family. Since they’re able to cut out the middleman and sell directly to consumers, local farmers are able to make enough money from their products to support themselves and stay on their land instead of selling it and letting it get developed into condos. And that land benefits the environment by protecting water sources, preserving open space, providing a place for wildlife to hang out.
2. Local food just tastes better
Local farmers have their finger firmly on the pulse of their crops and the seasons, and they know just when to pick crops so they’re at their peak — which means that food will be so much tastier. For restaurant owners, that means better tasting dishes and happier customers who’ll keep coming back for more. (Just don’t forget to change the menu to account for seasonal produce.)
3. Buying local strengthens the economy
Local businesses hire local people, everyone from architects to woodworkers, to accountants and marketing firms. Corporations will have their own staff that most certainly won’t be in town.
Ready to start buying local? Check out listings in your area for farmers’ markets. Many local farms can even arrange to deliver orders right to your back door.
For more tips and tricks, head to Modernize.com.
