What Does "Local" Really Mean?

What does “local” really mean in today’s food system? In this episode of Hort Culture, we explore how local food markets are evolving, from grocery stores and farm-to-school programs to collaborative CSAs and larger distribution networks. We discuss the opportunities and tradeoffs growers face as they move beyond direct-to-consumer sales, how consumers think about local and organic foods, and what happens when “local” becomes part of mainstream marketing. Plus, we share some real-world experiences from Kentucky farms, farmers markets, schools, and local food systems. UK Center for Crop Diversification The Food Connection at the University of Kentucky The Kentucky Farm to School Hub UK Market Ready: Farm to School Organic Association of Kentucky Kentucky Farm Share Coalition USDA Economic Research Service: Local Foods Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: hortculturepodcast@gmail.com Check us out on Instagram!