Fresh fruits and vegetables are one to step toward healthier kids across the state.
The Farm to School initiative links fresh fruits and vegetables to K–12 schools — encouraging children to learn about healthy eating while supporting new markets for local small and mid-size farmers. Farm to School serves more than 600,000 (more than 70 percent) of Minnesota students.
According to Jean Ronnei, director of nutrition and commercial services at St. Paul Public Schools, “By purchasing local products, we connect kids to the farmers in a way that allows them to explore new foods, learn how they are grown and feel proud to live in the Midwest.” Examples of Farm to School results include schools serving:
- Winona — bison from a nearby ranch, local broccoli, winter squash, whole-wheat bread and wild rice.
- Rosemount — locally grown sweet corn.
- Northfield — local watermelons, salad greens, carrots and sheep’s milk cheese.
- Pine River–Backus — local-area wild rice and honey.