FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 20, 2008

For More Information:
Robert Lazaro, PEC, Director of Communications
571.225.0198

Buy Fresh/Buy Local Supports "Green" Economy

(Warrenton, VA) Residents can support the "green" economy by patronizing local markets, farmers' markets and restaurants that purchase produce and foods from local farms. Part of a growing movement across the country, PEC's Buy Fresh, Buy Local program supports local agriculture throughout the Piedmont region. Here are some reasons to choose fresh, local food:

Food Travels on Average 1500-2500 Miles from Farm to Table

Fruits and vegetables shipped from distant states and countries can spend as many as seven to fourteen days in transit before they arrive in the supermarket. Most fruit and vegetable varieties sold in supermarkets are chosen for their ability to withstand industrial harvesting equipment and extended travel, not taste. This results in little variety in the plants grown.

You will Get Exceptional Taste and Freshness with Local Foods

Local food is fresher and tastes better than food shipped long distances from other states or countries. Local farmers can offer produce varieties bred for taste and freshness rather than for shipping and long shelf life.

You'll Protect the Environment

Local food doesn't have to travel far. This reduces carbon dioxide emissions and packing materials. Buying local food also helps to make farming more profitable and selling farmland for development less attractive. When you buy local food, you vote with your food dollar. This ensures that family farms in your community will continue to thrive and that healthy, flavorful, plentiful food will be available for future generations.

You'll Strengthen Your Local Economy

Buying local food keeps your dollars circulating in your community. Getting to know the farmers who grow your food builds relationships based on understanding and trust, the foundation of strong communities.

You'll Safeguard Your Family's Health

Knowing where your food comes from and how it is grown or raised enables you to choose safe food from farmers who avoid or reduce their use of chemicals, pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified seed in their operations. Buy food from local farmers you trust.

Residents interested in supporting local agriculture can do so by visiting www.buylocalvirginia.org. Loudoun County has an excellent network of Farmers' Markets which can be found at www.loudounfarmersmarkets.org.

By supporting local foods you are supporting local farmers and the "green" economy. And, you will get some really great tasting food.