Just the other day I was going to buy Organic Apples, but they were from another country. I kept thinking how much is it worth to buy an organic fruit that has traveled thousands of miles. I would much rather buy Apples that are from right here in New York organic or not.
As a BJ’s shopper I am really excited to hear they understand the importance of the saying, “No Farms, No Food.” They want to give us the chance to buy fresh produce from local farmers.
Consumers are increasingly more aware that fruits and vegetables that are in-season, harvested closer to their peak ripeness, and transported shorter distance retain more nutrients. However, according to the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, it is estimated that the average American meal still travels about 1,500 miles to go from picked to plate.
In fact, the National Grocers Association’s 2014 Consumer Panel found that more locally grown foods and price/cost savings topped the list of the improvements desired most among the shoppers surveyed.
Today, BJ’s Wholesale Club is shortening the distance from farm to table by buying fresh produce from a local Rhode Island farm and getting it onto Rhode Island club shelves in under 24 hours – watch the amazing process here.
BJ’s local produce sourcing is at the lead of a growing trend. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), industry estimates suggest that local food sales in America have nearly doubled in recent years, jumping from $5 billion in 2008 to $11.7 billion in 2014.
In New York, BJ’s is offering Yellow Squash, Zucchini, Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers, Corn and Eggplant from Tony Emmi Farms in Liverpool, Juliano Farms in Utica, Tassleberry Farms in Westmoreland, Kubecka Farms in Kirkville, C & M Farm and Greenhouses in Valatie, Kinderhook Creek Farm Inc. in Stephentown, Reeves Farms in Baldwinsville and Eden Valley Growers Inc. in Eden.
Next time you are in your store check for the local produce.
Sample BJ’s Brand Items on 2/18 for their Special Demo & Tasting Event
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