If you’re like most people in Hawaii, you care deeply about preserving the environment. You’re likely also concerned about the quality of the food you provide to your family. Fortunately, purchasing locally sourced items from local farms will serve both goals and provide the following benefits. 

4 Benefits of Eating Locally Sourced Foods

1. Fewer Pesticides & Preservatives

Chemical pesticides aren’t the only option for protecting crops. There are also natural methods of repelling insects that don’t impact the safety or quality of foods. Smaller farms typically use these natural methods and don’t need preservatives to keep crops fresh since they only have a short distance to travel. 

2. Better for the Local Economy

Patronizing local small businesses invests in your community. Chain supermarkets typically don’t contribute much to local economies when compared with neighborhood companies. For example, a local farm employs residents and partners with other businesses in the area.

3. Better for the Animals

Local farms take care of their animals by providing nutritionally rich feed and plenty of space to roam. You can feel good knowing you’re supporting a business that upholds animal rights. 

4. Enhanced Flavor

At a local farm, produce is picked when it’s ripe and not a moment before. Purchasing fruits and vegetables from chain grocery stores usually means that foods are harvested before reaching peak ripeness so they don’t go bad on their way to the supermarket. Because locally sourced produce doesn’t have far to travel, it will still be bursting with flavor by the time it makes it home. 

Eating local is a breeze when you have a family-owned farm right in town. In Kula, HI, head to Surfing Goat Dairy. The Certified Humane® farm offers more than 30 varieties of goat cheeses, all of which are made with locally sourced ingredients, along with other goodies like truffles, handmade soap, and gift baskets. Check out their full product selection online. You can also call (808) 878-2870 with any questions.