Valereee of Cincinnati Locavore started an e-list a couple of weeks ago, open to farmers, consumers, etc. and we’ve been getting lots of good information. Folks that grow veggies year-round, sources for goat’s milk, raw milk (shhh), local cheese, etc. I *love* that we now have a list where we can ask all our questions, like:
– Where do we get locally-farmed, eco-raised fish?
– Where can we purchase unadulterated, free-range poultry?
– Who raises gourmet lettuces year round?
– Is there organic honey available locally?
– Where can I buy pastured pork? Hormone- and antibiotic-free beef? (We’re not big lamb fans but lamb is available too!)
and there are usually people who have the answers. One of the members started a database listing farms in the area — it’s up to 57 now. Quite a resource, and even better than the LocalHarvest search feature, which was my favorite reference, until now!
Most importantly (to me anyway), we can ask farmers firsthand about their practices and other concerns we have as consumers. And I think it’s a great way for local farmers to find new customers and hear/read what they really want. Win-win!
Now, if I can find someone who will grow Asian veggies year-round, I won’t have to grow them myself. But until then….
Wanna join us?
Local vs. Organic honey is one of those things most people don’t realize they are making a choice between when they buy. (see http://www.downtoearthblog.com/). Very few local apiaries can be organic.
The local benefits apply specifically to allergens (not necessarily the same thing as toxins). Local, raw honey is believed by many to help fight allergies. It needs to be local so it contains small amounts of the plant allergens you would experience where you live.