Local Foods
Minneapolis residents are thinking about the food they eat, where it comes from, how it is grown, and how their food choices impact their surroundings. As a result, consumers are advocating for food that is healthy, sustainably produced, and locally grown. Local foods and a strong “local food system” can promote healthy people and communities, equitable distribution of food resources, a sustainable environment and a thriving economy.
Minneapolis boasts a strong foundation of local foods resources including:
- Twenty-nine farmers’ markets and mini markets.
- Over 120 community gardens.
- Five natural food grocery co-ops.
- Numerous regional CSA (community supported agriculture) farms with 106 local drop-off points serving hundred of Minneapolis residents. Find a CSA.
- Local restaurants serving local food.
- Rich environment of local food-supporting non-profit organizations.
- Local food-focused educational opportunities.
- Urban gardening-focused youth training programs.
- Strong community support for local food values and activities.
The City of Minneapolis has an important role to play in building a strong local food system. Encouraging residents to grow, sell, buy, and consume more fresh, sustainably produced and locally grown foods can positively impact the health, environment, economy, and security of the city and the surrounding region. The City of Minneapolis is leading the way on food policy and planning through its Homegrown Minneapolis initiative and its support of a variety of local food activities.
Last updated Oct. 12, 2012