What is Local Food?

We define “local” as food that is grown, caught, raised, or made in Washington State. But, more importantly, we think ‘local’ should signify an area where you could feasibly “know your farmer.” We have an abundance of food available in our state, and “local” food is more than just measuring miles – it’s getting to know farmers, fisherman, and food producers that are part of our communities.

“Local” refers to food and other agricultural products (for example, wool or flowers) that are grown or produced, processed, and then sold.

Why Eat Local

Local Means

Grown | Raised | Harvested | Made

 

Washington State graphic with the words Eat Local First - Eat Local First WA logo

Eat Local First

Eat Local First is the trusted source for finding local farms and identifying the restaurants, markets, and food businesses that purchase from local food producers.

Sustainable Connections’ Food & Farming Program launched the Eat Local First campaign in 2011 to encourage people in Northwest Washington – residents and visitors alike – to choose local food first.

In 2018 the campaign was adopted by food systems organizations on the Olympic Peninsula, and is now expanding to be utilized statewide to connect Washingtonians with local farmers, fishers, and food businesses.

Partners from around the state are working together to merge different online farm finder tools into one comprehensive, easy-to-use, online Washington Food & Farm Finder.

These partners make up the Eat Local First Collaborative:  Pierce County Fresh, Sustainable Connections, The Local Food Trust, Tilth Alliance, Washington State University Food Systems Program and Washington State University Regional Small Farms Program serving Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap, and with future participation from Island Grown, Genuine Skagit Valley, Gorge Grown Food Network, the Methow Conservancy, Walla Walla Grown and other regional partners. Is your region interested in joining us?
Contact us to learn more

Which Local Businesses are Participating?

So many of our locally-owned food businesses are passionate about supporting local farmers and our food system. Businesses listed on our Washington Food & Farm Finder are committed to shifting at least 10% of their food purchases to local ingredients. Some are doing much more! Before you head out for groceries, take out, online shopping or other purchases – think about these businesses and Eat Local First!

Eat Local First Participants