More Minn. schools buy food from local farms
A new survey says the number of Minnesota school districts buying fresh food from local farms is growing.
Farm to school programs link school children with local farmers, who provide fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and other items. Supporters say the programs bring healthy food to children while supporting mid-sized farms.
The survey was by the Minnesota School Nutrition Association and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy.
The groups surveyed foodservice workers from nearly 100 public school districts across the state. Sixty-nine districts reported buying Minnesota-grown products in 2009, more than double the figure from 2008.
The survey also found that apples, potatoes, peppers and sweet corn were among the most commonly used local foods.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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