1. What are the key challenges facing Idaho in adopting farm-to-table dining concepts?
Idaho faces several key challenges in adopting farm-to-table dining concepts. These challenges include:
1. Geographic Diversity: Idaho is a geographically diverse state with varying climates and terrains, which can impact the availability of locally sourced produce and ingredients throughout the year. This can make it challenging for restaurants to consistently offer a farm-to-table menu.
2. Seasonal Variability: Idaho experiences distinct seasons, which can result in limited availability of certain produce during specific times of the year. Restaurants must navigate this seasonality to maintain a farm-to-table approach while ensuring a diverse and appealing menu for diners.
3. Supply Chain Infrastructure: Establishing strong relationships with local farms and producers and developing efficient supply chains can be a hurdle for restaurants in Idaho looking to embrace farm-to-table dining. It requires investment in infrastructure and logistics to ensure the timely delivery of fresh, local ingredients.
4. Consumer Awareness: Educating consumers about the benefits of farm-to-table dining and the importance of supporting local agriculture is crucial for the success of such concepts in Idaho. Restaurants need to engage with their customers and build awareness and appreciation for the farm-to-table movement.
By addressing these challenges through strategic planning, collaboration with local producers, seasonal menu planning, and consumer education, Idaho can successfully adopt and promote farm-to-table dining concepts, creating a more sustainable and vibrant food culture in the state.
2. How can Idaho restaurants better support local farmers through farm-to-table initiatives?
Idaho restaurants can better support local farmers through various farm-to-table initiatives by:
1. Building strong relationships: Encouraging direct communication and partnerships between restaurants and local farmers can help establish a consistent supply chain and ensure the quality of the produce being used.
2. Offering seasonal menus: By aligning their menus with the seasons and the availability of local produce, restaurants can showcase the freshness and diversity of ingredients grown by Idaho farmers.
3. Hosting farm dinners and events: Organizing farm dinners or events where customers can interact with farmers and learn about the origin of their food can create a deeper connection to the local agricultural community.
4. Implementing farm-to-table branding: Clearly labeling menu items that are sourced from local farmers can help raise awareness among customers and emphasize the restaurant’s commitment to supporting the local food system.
5. Participating in farmers’ markets: Restaurants can directly support local farmers by purchasing ingredients from farmers’ markets, which not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also fosters a sense of community within the local food industry.
3. What role can Idaho policymakers play in promoting farm-to-table dining practices?
Idaho policymakers can play a crucial role in promoting farm-to-table dining practices by implementing various initiatives and policies to support local farmers and restaurants. Here are several ways they can contribute to this cause:
1. Supporting Local Agriculture: Policymakers can provide financial incentives, grants, and loans to local farmers to help them grow and supply fresh produce to nearby restaurants. This can include establishing farmer’s markets, community-supported agriculture programs, and farm-to-school initiatives.
2. Regulatory Support: Policymakers can streamline regulations and licensing processes to make it easier for small-scale farmers and food producers to sell their products directly to consumers and restaurants. This can include creating food safety guidelines specific to farm-to-table operations.
3. Education and Promotion: Idaho policymakers can invest in educational campaigns to raise awareness among consumers and businesses about the benefits of farm-to-table dining. This can include hosting workshops, events, and collaborations with local chefs to showcase the value of using local ingredients.
Overall, Idaho policymakers have the opportunity to create a supportive environment that encourages the growth of farm-to-table dining practices, benefiting both local farmers and the community as a whole.
4. How have consumer attitudes towards farm-to-table dining changed in Idaho in recent years?
Consumer attitudes towards farm-to-table dining in Idaho have undergone significant changes in recent years.
1. Increased demand for locally sourced ingredients: Idaho consumers have become more conscious of where their food comes from and are placing greater importance on supporting local farmers and producers. This has led to a growing interest in farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the bounty of Idaho’s agricultural industry.
2. Emphasis on sustainability and environmental impact: There is a greater awareness among consumers in Idaho about the environmental impact of food production and transportation. As a result, there has been a shift towards supporting farm-to-table restaurants that prioritize sustainability practices such as organic farming, responsible sourcing, and reducing food waste.
3. Desire for transparency and authenticity: Consumers in Idaho are increasingly seeking transparency in the food supply chain and are drawn to farm-to-table dining concepts that offer a direct connection to the source of their food. They value authenticity, knowing where their food comes from, and understanding the journey it took to reach their plate.
4. Appreciation for quality and flavor: Idaho consumers have developed a greater appreciation for the superior quality and taste of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Farm-to-table dining allows them to experience the freshness and flavor of products that are harvested at peak ripeness and delivered directly from the farm to the table.
Overall, consumer attitudes towards farm-to-table dining in Idaho have evolved to prioritize supporting local producers, sustainability, transparency, and quality, reflecting a shift towards a more conscious and mindful approach to food consumption.
5. What are the economic benefits of farm-to-table dining for Idaho producers and suppliers?
Farm-to-table dining can bring significant economic benefits to Idaho producers and suppliers. Here are five key ways in which this concept can positively impact their bottom line:
1. Direct Sales: By selling their products directly to local restaurants and consumers, Idaho producers can eliminate the middlemen and receive a higher price for their goods. This direct sales model can result in increased profits and a more stable income stream.
2. Premium Pricing: Farm-to-table dining often emphasizes the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. This emphasis on quality allows producers to command premium prices for their products, as consumers are willing to pay more for fresh, sustainable fare.
3. Increased Demand: By participating in farm-to-table initiatives, Idaho producers can tap into a growing market for locally sourced foods. As consumer interest in sustainable and ethical dining options continues to rise, suppliers who can meet this demand stand to benefit financially.
4. Marketing Opportunities: Farm-to-table dining provides producers with a unique selling point that can differentiate their products in the marketplace. By promoting their involvement in the local food movement, suppliers can attract new customers and build brand loyalty.
5. Strengthening the Local Economy: By supporting local producers and suppliers through farm-to-table initiatives, restaurants and consumers help to bolster the regional economy. This economic stimulation can have a ripple effect, benefitting other businesses and creating a more resilient and sustainable food system in Idaho.
6. How can Idaho schools incorporate farm-to-table dining programs to promote healthy eating habits?
Idaho schools can incorporate farm-to-table dining programs to promote healthy eating habits by implementing the following strategies:
1. Establishing partnerships with local farmers and producers to source fresh, seasonal ingredients for school meals. This can help support the local economy while providing students with nutritious and flavorful foods.
2. Introducing school gardens where students can learn about growing fruits and vegetables, fostering a connection to the source of their food. This hands-on experience can encourage a greater appreciation for fresh produce.
3. Offering food education programs that teach students about the nutritional benefits of different foods and how to make healthy choices. This can include cooking classes, nutrition workshops, and taste tests to expose students to new ingredients.
4. Incorporating farm-fresh ingredients into school menus through creative recipes that showcase the flavors of locally sourced produce. This can make healthy eating more enjoyable and appealing to students.
5. Engaging parents and the community in farm-to-table initiatives by hosting events such as farmers’ markets, farm tours, and culinary showcases. This can help build support for the program and encourage healthy eating habits beyond the school environment.
Overall, by incorporating farm-to-table dining programs into schools, Idaho can not only promote healthy eating habits among students but also foster a sustainable food system that benefits both individuals and the community as a whole.
7. What are some successful farm-to-table dining collaborations between Idaho chefs and farmers?
1. In Idaho, one successful farm-to-table dining collaboration is between Chef Kyle Stratton of Fork Restaurant and Hen and Hare Microfarm. Chef Stratton sources fresh produce directly from Hen and Hare Microfarm, located just outside Boise. This collaboration ensures that the restaurant serves seasonal, locally-grown ingredients in their dishes, providing diners with a true taste of Idaho’s agricultural bounty.
2. Another notable collaboration is between Chef Dustan Bristol of State & Lemp and Purple Sage Farms. Purple Sage Farms is known for its sustainable farming practices and diverse selection of herbs and vegetables. By partnering with Purple Sage Farms, Chef Bristol is able to create innovative and flavorful dishes that highlight the quality and freshness of the locally-grown produce.
3. Additionally, the collaboration between Chef Richard Langston of Cafe Vicino and M&M Heath Farms showcases the best of Idaho’s agricultural offerings. M&M Heath Farms supplies the restaurant with premium meats, such as grass-fed beef and heritage pork, that are raised with care and attention to animal welfare. This partnership allows Chef Langston to create dishes that celebrate the farm-fresh flavors of Idaho.
Overall, these successful farm-to-table dining collaborations highlight the importance of fostering relationships between chefs and farmers to promote sustainability, support local agriculture, and provide diners with an authentic farm-to-table dining experience in Idaho.
8. How does the climate and geography of Idaho influence farm-to-table dining options?
The climate and geography of Idaho play a significant role in shaping the farm-to-table dining options in the state.
1. The diverse landscape of Idaho, which includes fertile valleys, high plains, and mountainous regions, allows for a wide variety of crops to be grown. This diversity in agriculture results in a rich supply of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products for farm-to-table restaurants to source from.
2. The temperate climate of Idaho also supports the growth of certain crops that thrive in cooler temperatures, such as potatoes, beets, and leafy greens. This abundance of locally grown ingredients enables farm-to-table restaurants to create menus that are not only seasonal but also reflective of the region’s agricultural heritage.
3. Additionally, the proximity of farms to urban centers in Idaho makes it easier for restaurants to establish direct relationships with farmers and suppliers. This direct sourcing allows for greater control over the quality and sustainability of ingredients used in farm-to-table dining establishments.
Overall, the climate and geography of Idaho create a fertile environment for farm-to-table dining, with an emphasis on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients that showcase the best of what the region has to offer.
9. What are some innovative farm-to-table dining experiences available in Idaho?
1. The Farmstead at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience where guests can dine on locally sourced ingredients in a charming rustic setting. The menu features dishes that highlight the bounty of Idaho’s farms, including fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
2. The Wylder in Sandpoint, Idaho is another innovative farm-to-table dining destination that focuses on sustainability and seasonality. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farmers, ranchers, and foragers to create a menu that changes regularly based on what is fresh and in season.
3. The Garnet Cafe in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is known for its commitment to supporting local farmers and producers. The cafe’s menu features dishes made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms and suppliers, creating a true farm-to-table experience for diners.
4. The Roosevelt in Boise, Idaho is a popular farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local and sustainable sourcing. The restaurant works closely with farmers and producers in the region to showcase the best of Idaho’s culinary offerings in creative and delicious dishes.
5. The Dish in Boise, Idaho offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on vegetarian and plant-based cuisine. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farmers and creates innovative dishes that highlight the flavors of Idaho’s produce.
Overall, Idaho has a growing farm-to-table dining scene with a variety of innovative experiences that showcase the best of the state’s local ingredients and culinary talent.
10. How can urban areas in Idaho better integrate farm-to-table dining into their food scene?
To better integrate farm-to-table dining into urban areas in Idaho, several strategies can be implemented:
1. Establish stronger partnerships between local farmers and urban restaurants: Restaurants can work directly with nearby farmers to source fresh, seasonal ingredients. Building relationships with local producers can ensure a reliable supply of high-quality, locally-sourced products for urban dining establishments.
2. Encourage community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs: Prompting urban residents to participate in CSA programs can help bridge the gap between farmers and consumers in urban areas. This direct connection can provide residents with a greater understanding of where their food comes from and support local farmers in the process.
3. Increase awareness and education: Hosting farm tours, cooking classes, and workshops can educate urban residents about the benefits of farm-to-table dining and showcase the importance of supporting local agriculture. By raising awareness about the value of locally-sourced ingredients, urban areas in Idaho can generate more interest and demand for farm-fresh dining options.
4. Support local farmers markets: Encouraging urban residents to shop at local farmers markets can directly connect them with regional producers and expose them to a wide variety of fresh, locally-grown products. Restaurants can also benefit from sourcing ingredients from farmers markets, strengthening the farm-to-table connection in urban dining scenes.
5. Create farm-to-table dining initiatives: Collaboration between restaurants, farmers, and community organizations can lead to the development of farm-to-table dining initiatives in urban areas. These programs can promote local food culture, sustainability, and healthy eating habits while supporting the local agricultural economy.
11. What initiatives are in place to educate consumers about the benefits of farm-to-table dining in Idaho?
In Idaho, there are several initiatives in place to educate consumers about the benefits of farm-to-table dining.
1. Farm-to-Table Workshops: These workshops are organized by local farms, farmer’s markets, and restaurants to educate consumers on the importance of sourcing locally and the benefits of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Participants often learn about sustainable farming practices, the nutritional value of local produce, and how supporting local farmers strengthens the community.
2. Farmer’s Market Events: Farmer’s markets in Idaho often host cooking demonstrations, tastings, and informational sessions to promote farm-to-table dining. These events allow consumers to interact directly with farmers and chefs, learning about where their food comes from and how to incorporate local ingredients into their meals.
3. Farm Tours: Some farms in Idaho offer tours to the public, providing an up-close look at the farming process and the opportunity to see where their food is grown. These tours help consumers develop a greater appreciation for the hard work that goes into producing local, sustainable food.
4. Local Food Festivals: Idaho hosts various food festivals throughout the year that highlight and celebrate local ingredients. These events often feature farm-to-table dinners, educational workshops, and chef-led cooking demonstrations that showcase the benefits of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Overall, these initiatives aim to raise awareness about the benefits of farm-to-table dining, promote sustainability, support local farmers, and encourage consumers to make more informed food choices.
12. How can Idaho agricultural businesses benefit from partnering with restaurants on farm-to-table initiatives?
Idaho agricultural businesses can benefit significantly from partnering with restaurants on farm-to-table initiatives for several reasons:
1. Increased Visibility: Partnering with restaurants can provide exposure for Idaho agricultural products to a wider audience. This can help raise awareness of the quality and variety of produce available in the region.
2. Direct Sales Channels: By working with restaurants, agricultural businesses can establish direct sales channels for their products. This can help them secure consistent and reliable buyers for their crops.
3. Brand Building: Collaborating with restaurants on farm-to-table initiatives can enhance the reputation and brand image of Idaho agricultural businesses. It can position them as advocates of locally sourced, sustainable food.
4. Relationship Building: Partnering with restaurants fosters relationships between farmers, chefs, and consumers. This can lead to long-term partnerships and loyalty from both the restaurants and their customers.
5. Economic Growth: Supporting local agricultural businesses through farm-to-table initiatives can contribute to the overall economic growth of the region. This can create jobs, stimulate tourism, and strengthen the local economy.
By leveraging these benefits, Idaho agricultural businesses can establish fruitful partnerships with restaurants and thrive in the farm-to-table dining landscape.
13. What are some unique farm-to-table dining events and festivals happening in Idaho this year?
1. In Idaho, there are several unique farm-to-table dining events and festivals that showcase the abundance of fresh, local ingredients available in the state. One such event is the “Sun Valley Harvest Festival,” which takes place in Sun Valley and features a series of farm-to-table dinners prepared by local chefs using ingredients sourced directly from Idaho farmers and producers.
2. Another notable event is the “Farm to Fork Fondo,” which is a cycling event that combines scenic bike rides through Idaho’s countryside with delicious farm-to-table meals prepared with ingredients from local farms along the route. Participants get to experience the beauty of Idaho’s farmland while enjoying the flavors of the region.
3. The “Idaho Botanical Garden’s Farm to Fork Dinner” is an annual event that brings together chefs, farmers, and diners for a multi-course meal served outdoors in the picturesque setting of the Idaho Botanical Garden. The menu showcases the best seasonal ingredients from Idaho farms and highlights the connection between food, nature, and community.
4. Additionally, the “45th Annual Idaho® Potato Drop” in Boise is a unique New Year’s Eve event that celebrates Idaho’s agricultural heritage. The event features live music, food vendors serving local fare, and, of course, the iconic Idaho® Potato Drop, where a giant illuminated potato is lowered as the clock strikes midnight. This event celebrates Idaho’s agricultural roots and highlights the importance of supporting local farmers and producers.
14. How do farm-to-table dining concepts align with sustainable practices in Idaho agriculture?
Farm-to-table dining concepts align perfectly with sustainable practices in Idaho agriculture for several reasons:
1. Local sourcing: By sourcing ingredients directly from local farms, farm-to-table restaurants support the economy of Idaho’s agricultural community while reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and storage of food products.
2. Seasonality: Farm-to-table dining emphasizes using seasonal ingredients, which promotes biodiversity and reduces the reliance on greenhouse gas-intensive practices like importing out-of-season produce.
3. Reduced food waste: By working closely with local farmers, chefs can plan their menus according to the available produce, which helps in reducing food waste and supporting sustainable farming practices.
4. Supporting small-scale farmers: Farm-to-table dining fosters relationships between chefs and local farmers, supporting small-scale and family-owned farms that often use more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
5. Transparency: Farm-to-table restaurants often prioritize transparency in sourcing, allowing consumers to learn about where their food comes from and how it was produced, promoting awareness and consciousness about sustainable food systems.
Overall, farm-to-table dining concepts not only support local farmers and the economy but also contribute to the preservation of Idaho’s agricultural heritage and environment through sustainable practices.
15. What resources are available to help restaurants in Idaho source local ingredients for their farm-to-table menus?
Restaurants in Idaho have several resources available to help them source local ingredients for their farm-to-table menus.
1. Idaho Preferred: This program connects consumers with local farmers, ranchers, and food producers in Idaho. Restaurants can utilize their directory to find local suppliers for fresh and seasonal ingredients.
2. Farmers Markets: Idaho has numerous farmers markets throughout the state where chefs can directly source produce, meats, and other products from local farmers. This allows for a personal connection between the restaurant and the suppliers.
3. Local Food Co-ops: Cooperative grocery stores and food hubs in Idaho often work with local farmers to supply fresh and sustainable ingredients. Restaurants can partner with these organizations to access a variety of local products.
4. Farm-to-Table Events and Networking: Participating in farm-to-table events and networking opportunities in Idaho can help restaurants establish relationships with local farmers and producers. These events often showcase local products and provide a platform for collaboration.
By utilizing these resources, restaurants in Idaho can strengthen their farm-to-table concepts by sourcing high-quality, seasonal ingredients from local suppliers. This not only supports the local economy but also provides diners with a unique culinary experience rooted in the flavors of Idaho.
16. What are the social implications of promoting farm-to-table dining in Idaho communities?
Promoting farm-to-table dining in Idaho communities can have significant social implications that benefit both the local community and the broader society. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Community Engagement: By promoting farm-to-table dining, there is a greater opportunity for community members to engage with local farmers and producers. This fosters a sense of community connectedness and support among residents.
2. Economic Impact: Supporting local farmers and producers through farm-to-table initiatives can have a positive economic impact on the community by keeping money within the local economy and supporting small businesses.
3. Health and Well-being: Encouraging the consumption of fresh, locally sourced foods can have a positive impact on community health and well-being. It can lead to a greater appreciation for fresh and nutritious foods, potentially reducing the reliance on processed foods.
4. Environmental Benefits: Farm-to-table dining promotes sustainable agricultural practices, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. This can lead to a cleaner environment and healthier ecosystems within the community.
5. Educational Opportunities: Promoting farm-to-table dining can also create educational opportunities for community members, particularly children, to learn about where their food comes from and the importance of supporting local agriculture.
Overall, promoting farm-to-table dining in Idaho communities can strengthen community ties, support local economies, improve public health, and promote environmental sustainability.
17. How can food waste reduction be integrated into farm-to-table dining practices in Idaho?
Reducing food waste is a crucial aspect of sustainable farm-to-table dining practices in Idaho. Here are several ways this can be achieved:
1. Source Locally: By sourcing ingredients locally, restaurants can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and minimize the likelihood of excess food spoiling before it can be utilized.
2. Menu Planning: Chefs should strategically plan menus to utilize all parts of the ingredient, including stems, peels, and scraps, in creative and delicious ways to reduce waste.
3. Portion Control: Implementing portion control measures can help ensure that customers are served appropriate amounts of food, reducing the likelihood of leftovers being thrown away.
4. Composting: Establishing a composting system for food scraps and leftovers can divert waste from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for local farms.
5. Collaboration with Farms: Building strong relationships with local farms allows restaurants to donate excess food, such as imperfect produce or surplus ingredients, rather than throwing them away.
6. Education and Awareness: Educating staff and customers about the importance of reducing food waste and the steps being taken by the restaurant can help create a culture of sustainability within the dining establishment.
By implementing these strategies and fostering a commitment to sustainability, farm-to-table dining practices in Idaho can effectively integrate food waste reduction into their operations.
18. What are the most popular farm-to-table dining trends currently taking off in Idaho?
1. In Idaho, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of farm-to-table dining concepts, with several trends gaining momentum across the state. One of the most popular trends is the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, with many restaurants partnering directly with nearby farms and producers to source fresh, seasonal produce, meat, and dairy products.
2. Another prevalent trend in Idaho’s farm-to-table dining scene is a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Many restaurants are prioritizing eco-friendly practices, such as reducing food waste, composting organic materials, and utilizing energy-efficient kitchen equipment. Customers are increasingly interested in supporting establishments that prioritize ethical sourcing and environmental conservation.
3. Additionally, the concept of hyper-local dining experiences is gaining traction in Idaho. This trend involves restaurants cultivating their own ingredients on-site or sourcing from urban gardens and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs within the local area. This not only ensures the freshest possible ingredients but also fosters a deeper connection between diners and the origins of their food.
4. Farm-to-table dining events and pop-up dinners are also becoming increasingly popular in Idaho, offering unique opportunities for chefs to showcase the flavors of the region in creative and intimate settings. These events often feature multi-course meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, paired with regional wines or craft beverages, providing diners with a memorable culinary experience that celebrates Idaho’s agricultural bounty.
19. How can Idaho farmers market their products effectively to restaurants interested in farm-to-table dining?
Idaho farmers can market their products effectively to restaurants interested in farm-to-table dining by implementing the following strategies:
1. Quality Product Showcase: Farmers should highlight the quality and freshness of their products by showcasing them at farmers markets, food fairs, and other events where chefs and restaurant owners are likely to be present.
2. Build Relationships: Establishing relationships with chefs and restaurant owners is crucial. Farmers can do this by attending industry events, networking, and offering samples of their products for tasting.
3. Direct Communication: Farmers should reach out directly to restaurants that align with their farm-to-table philosophy. Sending personalized emails or making phone calls to introduce themselves and their products can help in building a strong connection.
4. Create Partnerships: Farmers can collaborate with restaurants on special events, menu items, or promotions. This not only helps in marketing their products but also strengthens the bond between the farm and the restaurant.
5. Transparency and Storytelling: Sharing the story behind their products, farming practices, and dedication to sustainability can resonate with restaurants looking for authentic farm-to-table partners. Transparency builds trust and loyalty among customers and restaurants.
6. Online Presence: Establishing an online presence through social media, website, or platforms like Farm2Chef can help farmers market their products to a wider audience, including restaurants interested in farm-to-table dining.
By implementing these strategies, Idaho farmers can effectively market their products to restaurants interested in farm-to-table dining, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that promotes sustainable, local food sourcing.
20. What can Idaho chefs and restaurateurs do to further enhance the farm-to-table dining experience for their customers?
To further enhance the farm-to-table dining experience for customers in Idaho, chefs and restaurateurs can consider the following suggestions:
1. Strengthen Relationships with Local Farmers: Establishing strong partnerships with local farmers and producers can ensure the highest quality and freshest ingredients are consistently used in dishes.
2. Seasonal Menu Offerings: Creating seasonal menus that showcase the best produce available at different times of the year not only highlights local flavors but also supports sustainable agriculture practices.
3. Transparency in Sourcing: Providing detailed information on menu items about where the ingredients come from can help build trust with customers and showcase the commitment to supporting local food systems.
4. Educational Opportunities: Offering workshops, farm tours, or dining events that educate customers about the journey of their food from farm to table can enhance the overall dining experience and create a deeper connection to the local food scene.
5. Community Engagement: Participating in local food festivals, farmers markets, or collaborative events with other businesses in the community can further promote the farm-to-table concept and strengthen ties with customers and local producers.