Consuming local food means that food is consumed near the place it was grown. The argument is that the process of distribution which involved use of pesticides and shipping, lowers the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables. Local food is also more ripe because it takes less time and energy to be consumed.
The North Carolina 10% Campaign, led by the Center for Environmental Farming Systems, to push the support of local food and local food businesses. the campaign began in 2007 and its main goal is to, “encourage consumers to commit 10 percent of their existing food dollars to support local food producers, related businesses and communities.” The campaign connects the community with local businesses and is meant to benefit both parties. It will expand and create jobs in the local farm and manufacturing industries, as well as improve the health of people who choose to incorporate fresh produce and local food in their diets. Eating locally improves the economy and environment of the community. North Carolina is has the twelfth highest rate of obesity in the nation, so the impact of the campaign could contribute to the improved health of the state as a whole. There are hundreds of partnerships with businesses, restaurants, and universities that have committed to purchasing local foods and goods. The campaign specifically impacts the state of North Carolina, but with partnerships of global corporations, the message of the 10% Campaign is sustained internationally.
The movement to buy local is not only supported by local organizations, but global corporations as well. Compass Group, a global leader in the foodservice industry, has committed to spending ten percent on local foods in North Carolina. However this company is committed to the ‘Eat Local’ campaign and supports efforts all over the nation to support local farms. In In 2009, the organization purchased over $17 million in local products.
