As you may have heard, our team at Celebrations Catering Lowell, MA, is going local. While some of you may understand and support the benefits of this action, we realize that others may not. Our team wanted to take this moment to delve into the meaning and benefits of utilizing locally sourced ingredients from the community. As always, we thank you for your continued support!
What does locally sourced mean?
Local sourcing refers to the sourcing and purchasing of consumable products within a specific distance from the area in which they’ll be consumed. For example, many chefs are choosing to work with local farmers and producers to build networks within the community.
This network is crucial in helping small businesses and farmers survive. Instead of outsourcing money, we’re creating a local demand that enables growth. Recent surveys show that the “organic” trend is quickly losing ground to the interest in locally sourced, fresher foods. People are looking at sustainability and supporting their local economy over those elsewhere in the country and around the globe.
Is locally sourced the same as organic?
In a nutshell, no, local doesn’t necessarily mean organic. However, it doesn’t mean that it’s not either. To be certified organic by the FDA, companies are held to strict guidelines and regulations that local suppliers are not. These regulations result in higher costs. Several studies are showing that premiums for organic vegetables increase nearly 100%, chicken 200%, and eggs a whopping 300%!
The carbon footprint
Chances are, you’ve heard of the “carbon footprint” at some point or another. In a society that is more aware than ever before of the environment and the effects, a single individual can make, we’re also more in tune with our path. By choosing locally sourced ingredients, we’re helping to cut back on the travel and processing needed to safely deliver food to consumers.
With reduced travel, costs will generally decrease. Decreased overall costs allow restaurants to purchase fresher ingredients while extending the pricing benefits to their customers. However, it’s imperative to keep in mind that economic situations change, and this may not always be the case. Either way, the funds that are expended are being put into the local community versus other areas and possibly even other countries.
Most common locally sourced ingredients
As the interest and demand grow for locally sourced ingredients, the market will expand. However, supply tends to be the challenge. Some of the most common, and available, locally sourced items include the following:
- Eggs
- Greens
- Bread
- Dairy
- Seasonal produce
At Celebrations Catering, we’re proud to announce our partnership with several local suppliers to bring our customers locally sourced greens and bread. From catering in Lowell, MA to Manchester, NH, we are all in this together! Be sure to check out our recent specials.
Call us today to place your order and be proud to support your local community (603) 598-5177.
