Local Foods
Local foods are fresh, healthy, and support the local economy. Lucky for us, we have local farmers who grow a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. By buying local, we are helping our community thrive, reducing our carbon footprint, and gaining access to high-quality, nutrient-rich foods. So next time you're planning your family meal or hosting a meal, consider choosing local options and supporting the hard-working farmers in our community.
Farm stands and U-pick farms are great places to find fresh, locally grown produce while supporting local farmers. Farm stands are typically stands or small stores located on or near the farm where the produce is grown, while U-pick farms allow visitors to pick their own fruits and vegetables directly from the fields. These options provide a unique experience for families and individuals looking to enjoy the outdoors while getting high-quality, fresh produce. Many farm stands and U-pick farms also offer other products such as homemade jams, baked goods, and flowers. Check our Farm Stands and U-Pick page for those near you!
You will find a variety of local farmers' markets and country stores that offer fresh, seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Our farmers' markets are a great way to support local agriculture and meet the people who grow your food. You can find everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods and more. Our country stores offer a rustic shopping experience with homemade jams, jellies, and preserves, as well as handmade soaps and candles. So come on out and explore the best that our community has to offer!
Fruits and vegetables are the backbone of a healthy diet, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that keep our bodies functioning at their best. From crisp apples to delicious peaches, sweet berries to savory greens, there is no shortage of delicious and nutritious options to choose from. Whether you are looking to add more plant-based foods to your diet, or simply want to enjoy the fresh flavors of the season, fruits and vegetables are the perfect choice.
Greenhouse growers are an important part of the local food system. By growing produce and plants in a controlled environment, they are able to provide fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables year-round. You can feel good knowing exactly where your food and plants come from and how they were grown. Visit one of our local greenhouses and enjoy delicious, locally grown produce and plants today!
Buying local honey is not only a delicious choice for sweetening your tea or drizzling over your biscuit, but it also has many benefits for your health and the environment. When you buy honey from a local beekeeper, you are supporting your local economy and helping to maintain the bee population in your area. Local honey is often raw, meaning it is not heated or processed, retaining all of its natural enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants. This can provide relief for seasonal allergies by exposing your body to small amounts of pollen from your area. By buying local, you can enjoy a sweet treat while also making a positive impact on your community and the planet.
Buying local meat, dairy, and eggs comes with a number of benefits. Firstly, it supports the local farmers and the local economy. When you buy directly from local farmers, you are cutting out the middlemen and ensuring that the money you spend goes directly to the people who produced the food. This helps to create a sustainable local food system and supports small businesses.
Secondly, local meat, dairy, and eggs are often fresher and of higher quality. Since they don't have to travel long distances, they can be harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring that you get the best possible product. This also means that the food is likely to be more nutritious, since it hasn't lost any of its vitamins or minerals on a long journey.
Finally, buying local meat, dairy, and eggs can be better for the environment. Since the food doesn't have to travel long distances, it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, local farmers are often more likely to use sustainable farming practices that promote biodiversity and protect the land.
Community canneries were founded during World War II as a way to help women provide for their families. Almost every county in Virginia had a cannery. Canning was a popular method of preserving food, and many farmers in the area began to take advantage of the technology to preserve their crops and for socializing.
These canneries produced a variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, and meats, and they provided a significant source of employment for the local community. However, with the advent of modern refrigeration and transportation methods, the popularity of canning began to decline, and many of the canneries in the area closed down.
Today, only two canneries remain in Franklin County, but the rich history of canning in the area is still celebrated by many locals.
Producing alcohol and more famously local moonshine is an important part of our heritage and local economy. Traditional forms of alcohol production have been passed down through generations and offer a unique taste that cannot be found elsewhere. Supporting our local producers helps to preserve these traditions and contributes to the sustainability of our community. By purchasing products from these small businesses, we are not only getting a high-quality product but also supporting the families and individuals who have dedicated their lives to carrying on these traditions. It's important to keep these traditions alive and to support our local producers in order to maintain the sense of community and preserve our heritage.
