Evidence of Slow Food in Vermont

Carlo Petrini, founder of the Slow Food movement, would be pleased with Vermont. In a recent interview with the Guardian’s Leo Hickman, “Slow food: Have we lost our appetite?”, Petrini, or Carlin to friends and fans, reveals that he is worried. He is worried about the economy and believes “if agriculture returns to a local economy this could be enrmously helpful.” So how does Vermont fit into this global movement? Let me count the ways…

First, we have the Vermont Fresh Network which creates partnerships between farmers and chefs, as well as promotes awareness about the economic and health benefits of eating locally grown and produced foods.

Second, there are the multiple farmers’ markets that occur year round (yes! even during our looong winters!). Here is a list of farmers’ markets for the winter season – if you haven’t consumed any local products lately, this may be a great way to experience something new, meet the people who actually grew or produced what you are buying, and to support our local economy.

Third, if you can’t make it to a farmers’ market, you can try a local co-op or grocery store. Many stores throughout Vermont highlight produce and products that are produced in state (a Hannaford’s store near me even has a “Vermont” section among the international foods sections!). Two of my favorite stores in the Burlington area are City Market/Onion River Co-op downtown and Healthy Living Natural Foods in South Burlington.

Fourth, if you have some time, search online for more great resources that encourage Vermont’s local food economy. Here are some suggestions to get you started; Local Harvest and Eat Local VT.

 

Evidence of Slow Food in Vermont

Carlo Petrini, founder of the Slow Food movement, would be pleased with Vermont. In a recent interview with the Guardian’s Leo Hickman, “Slow food: Have we lost our appetite?”, Petrini, or Carlin to friends and fans, reveals that he is worried. He is worried about the economy and believes “if agriculture returns to a local economy this could be enrmously helpful.” So how does Vermont fit into this global movement? Let me count the ways…

First, we have the Vermont Fresh Network which creates partnerships between farmers and chefs, as well as promotes awareness about the economic and health benefits of eating locally grown and produced foods.

Second, there are the multiple farmers’ markets that occur year round (yes! even during our looong winters!). Here is a list of farmers’ markets for the winter season – if you haven’t consumed any local products lately, this may be a great way to experience something new, meet the people who actually grew or produced what you are buying, and to support our local economy.

Third, if you can’t make it to a farmers’ market, you can try a local co-op or grocery store. Many stores throughout Vermont highlight produce and products that are produced in state (a Hannaford’s store near me even has a “Vermont” section among the international foods sections!). Two of my favorite stores in the Burlington area are City Market/Onion River Co-op downtown and Healthy Living Natural Foods in South Burlington.

Fourth, if you have some time, search online for more great resources that encourage Vermont’s local food economy. Here are some suggestions to get you started; Local Harvest and Eat Local VT.