By Jane Marsh
People have become increasingly aware of the importance of healthy eating and the role food choices play in health and the planet. One of the best ways to promote healthy eating habits and support sustainable agriculture is by bringing the farm-to-table concept to school lunches.
What Is Farm-to-Table?
Farm-to-table refers to a movement where food is purchased directly from local farmers and served in restaurants, schools or households, cutting out the intermediaries such as wholesalers and large grocery chains. This food procurement and preparation approach emphasises using fresh, seasonal ingredients, often grown with sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
Eliminating the extended supply chain typically associated with industrial agriculture offers consumers healthier, more flavourful food options while supporting local communities and the economy.
Farm-to-table refers to a movement where food is purchased directly from local farmers and served in restaurants, schools or households, cutting out the intermediaries such as wholesalers and large grocery chains.
5 Steps to Bring Farm-to-table for School Lunches
It may seem like a daunting task for your children’s school to implement farm-to-table, but with the right technologies, partnerships, and equipment, it is possible to create a healthier, tastier and more sustainable lunch program. Here are the steps a school can take to get started:
1. Build a Team
The first step in bringing farm-to-table to the school is to build a team of individuals who are passionate about the cause. This can include parents, teachers, administrators and students, as well as representatives from local farms and food organisations. Moms can play a part by joining the farm-to-table team.
2. Conduct Research
Before a school starts sourcing food from local farms, it must conduct research to determine what is available in the area. It can solicit support from parents or gather online resources from organizations to find local farms and learn more about their products.
Before a school starts sourcing food from local farms, it must conduct research to determine what is available in the area.
3. Establish Partnerships
Once a school identifies potential farm partners, it is important to establish strong working relationships with them. This can involve setting up regular visits and arranging for farmers to talk to students about their products and the importance of sustainable agriculture.
