The Nebraska Local Foods Network (NLFN) is a collaboration of Nebraskans working together to encourage and facilitate the increased production and consumption of local foods. The NLFN strives to build stronger communities, healthier lives and a cleaner environment.
A large, mostly unmet demand for local food products exists across the United States. This demand is driven on the consumer side by a desire to consume fresher products, have more confidence in the safely of their food, support local economies, reduce food transportation miles, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. This demand is creating opportunities for new and existing food producers to engage in higher-value markets. However, challenges exist that need to be addressed to grow the local foods movement in Nebraska. The NLFN has divided into three subcommittees and is working to address these challenges.
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Nebraska Local Foods Network Chef Challenge
At the 2009 Chef Challenge three colleges went head-to-head in the kitchens at Schaefer's TV and Appliance Stores to see who could make the best local foods plates. The final results were extremely close with The Institute of Culinary Arts at Metro Community College winning, followed by Southeast Community College and the UNL Culinology Team. All teams received medals and re-usable grocery bags, while the winning teams got Schaefer's gift cards and a traveling trophy. We are very proud of all the students who participated in the contest, and we are considering making this an annual event. A special thanks to the NLFN Education and Nutrition Committee for lending a hand to help the Rural Initiative and Schaefer's to host this event.
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December Partner of the Month
The goal of Open Harvest is to provide good health through good nutrition. Open Harvest provides high quality and natural foods with a high level of service and a reasonable price to the community of Lincoln. Open Harvest is a member-owned retail cooperative dedicated to equitable employment practices, support of local producers, consumer education, and sustainable agricultural practices.
The newly remodeled Open Harvest Natural and Organic Market has been supporting local farmers since it opened in 1975. The grocery features local seasonal produce, eggs, cheese, dairy, meat, poultry, grains, sauces, and more. The expanded store now offers a wider selection of deli, bakery, meat & seafood, produce, vitamins, and bulk items.
Open Harvest is located at 1618 South Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. Everyone is welcome to shop. For more information, call 402-475-9069 or go to the website.
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We are now on Facebook...
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Nebraska Local Foods Network Newsletters
