Why Local Food?

There is no official definition for the term local food, but it generally refers to food that is sourced within a 100-mile radius, or food that has been produced within the same state. Recent research found that 90% of Americans could be fed from food grown or raised within 100 miles, enough to assure that eating local can be more than a passing fad.  
Farmhouse Delivery aims to bring that local food even closer to you, connecting local family farms with Texans who want to support our food system. Read on to learn more about what makes local food different, and why we’ve based our company on supporting the community we all live in.

Is Local the Same as Organic?

Organic foods are produced without using artificial fertilizers, pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics, or GMO’s, many of which have been proven to have harmful effects on health. Not all local farms are organic, and not all organic farms are local. Ideally, the food we consume would be both. With smaller local farms, you might not typically see the word ‘organic’ being used. Most small family farms opt out of the cost required to obtain official USDA organic certification, even if their produce is grown with practices that go above and beyond the measures called for by the USDA. The best way to know is to ask! In our case, you can email us with any questions or you can read about Farmhouse’s standards here.


Health & Wellness Benefits

Approximately 50% of all American adults have one or more preventable chronic diseases caused by poor diet and lifestyle (heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and some cancers), costing billions of dollars to our medical system each year. By using more sustainable sources, we are more likely to have a diet that is lower in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. Local food is grown seasonally, harvested at peak freshness, and in your kitchen in less time – meaning more flavor and nutrients for you! 70-80% of your body’s immune system is found in your gut. Organic meats are higher in immune-supporting Omega 3 fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Microbes found in local soil and raw local honey enhance your body’s immunity and may help you fight back against colds and seasonal allergies.


Environmental Impacts

Sustainable agriculture leads to less use of fossil fuels in fertilizers and transportation costs. As distribution is simplified, there are fewer chances for contamination of food. Farmers use techniques that enhance nutrients in soil, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity. These efforts also aid in reducing the need for pest control and weed killers that are used on the foods you eat. Many of these local farms have higher standards for animal welfare. Factory farms have more focus on profit and efficiency at the expense of the animals. More local farms are able to provide their animals with better food and shelter, and often results in using lowered costs and pollution.


Economic Considerations

Buying local means you are supporting farmers and small businesses within your community. When you spend money in the community, 68% of your funds stay within the community and generates 3.5 times more wealth for the local economy compared to money spent at bigger retailers.

Especially if your favorite local food vendor delivers (like us!) you keep even more money in your pocket by eliminating the gas and impulse purchase items your weekly shopping trip can rack up. No more waiting in line or dealing with traffic. Instead, spend time doing what matters most to you.


Research and article by Jennifer Wibble

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