Is locally grown food making an impact on the produce industry?

The answer is a resounding “yes,” according to an article in Restaurant Hospitality magazine.

“So many consumers prefer it [locally grown produce] there’s been a noticeable demand shift in the produce industry,” according to the article.

Giant agricultural lender Rabobank funded a study entitled, “Local Foods: Shifting the Balance of Opportunity for Regional U.S. Produce.” Based on statistics gathered in the study, Rabobank concluded that its core customers–mainly national-scale growers based in California–should adjust their business models and get on the locally grown bandwagon.

We’ve been singing this mantra for years, beginning in 1992 with publication of the first edition of the “Pike Place Market Cookbook.” Nice the rest of the world is finally catching up!