Colorado Proud has ten ideas to support your appetite, and our economy
ColoradoBiz Staff //April 3, 2020//
Colorado Proud has ten ideas to support your appetite, and our economy
ColoradoBiz Staff //April 3, 2020//
Food and groceries feel more important than ever during the COVID-19 situation. In response, Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg reminds every Colorado resident how local food is adding extra value to our lives and, of course, to the grocery shelves.
“Thanks to our farmers and ranchers across the state, our local food system is abundant, and our supply chains are healthy. This is a moment for us to continue coming together to support Colorado agriculture and buy local food," Greenberg says.
Colorado farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, truckers, retailers, chefs and food manufacturers continue to put food on our tables, while doing their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. Locally-grown and -raised produce, dairy, meat, grains and other locally-made products are abundant. And local chefs continue to prepare takeout meals using seasonal, local ingredients.
While consumers may see some empty shelves, that is only because people have been purchasing food at a higher rate than normal, not due to lack of supply. There is plenty of food coming from Colorado farms, ranches and food makers. Food systems are operating as intended; and as more food is purchased at retail, the food supply chain is adjusting to increased consumer demand.
“More than ever, local buying and eating are not only good for agriculture; they are good for all Coloradans. Every time we buy local food and products, we are simultaneously boosting Colorado’s economy and heritage, with agriculture as one of the biggest economic drivers in the state,” says Wendy White, marketing specialist for Colorado Proud.
“It’s not just the responsibility of the farmers and ranchers; it’s important for everyone to take an active role in feeding Colorado – both literally and economically. After all, every bite is helping our state,” White says.
Here are 10 ways every Coloradan can nourish our farmers, ranchers and food and beverage businesses, while buying and eating local food:
Agriculture is an important economic driver in the state, consistently ranking as one of Colorado’s leading industries and is in the top-10 nationally for production of a variety of agricultural products. With more than 38,900 farms encompassing nearly 32 million acres, agriculture is a vital part of Colorado, supporting more than 195,000 jobs, contributing more than $47 billion to the state’s economy annually.