Local Food
The School Food Project is excited to be partnering with local farmers and producers to give kids a taste of fresh, Colorado-grown fruits and vegetables!
​What does local mean?
BVSD gives preference in its food purchasing to growers, producers and processors in Boulder and Broomfield counties, Colorado; then to the surrounding counties (Gilpin, Grand, Larimer, Clear Creek, Arapahoe, Douglas, Weld); then to other areas of Colorado. BVSD’s local purchasing is generally accomplished through direct relationships with farms, dairies, and producers; Food Service works with growers and producers many months in advance to time menu offerings with local harvests. That said, it’s important to recognize that fifty-six percent of Colorado’s total land is over 10,000 feet in elevation, thus limiting areas for production as well as growing seasons. Certain requirements cannot be fulfilled within Colorado (e.g. citrus fruits); in these cases, we go for best/quality price with lowest transportation costs.
Why Local?
Eating local is healthier. Healthier for you and healthier for the planet. The average grocery item travels 1,500 miles through the supply chain before landing in your local store. Eating locally is good for the environment by reducing the carbon footprint of the food you consume. Local food is fresher, which makes it both tastier and healthier.
Did you know that produce begins to lose nutritional value once it is picked? Eating locally ensures higher quality and higher nutrition content. Eating locally also helps support local farmers, farmland and the local economy. For every dollar spent purchasing local food, the community will realize $2-3 in economic development benefits. Plus it is just fun to get to know your local farmer! Stop by your neighborhood farmers market and get to know the people who grew your food.
Eat Local, Eat Seasonal
Eating locally means eating seasonally, especially in a state like Colorado, which doesn't support year-round growing. Seasonal food is just that - food that is purchased and consumed around the same time of the year that it is harvested. Seasonal produce is picked at the peak of freshness, ensuring a higher nutritional value than fruits and vegetables picked out of season, packaged, preserved and shipped across the country. A seasonal diet provides your body with varying vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that change with the seasons to benefit your overall health.
Looking for a way to support or learn more about local food? Check out our calendar of local food events below.
Know of an event we should add? Email us.