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Cabarrus County Local Food Purchasing Policy Purpose: It is the policy of Cabarrus County to promote economic vitality, support the health and safety of its employees and citizens, and to preserve and protect our natural resources so that future generations will have an opportunity to thrive. The Local Food Purchasing Policy is intended to grow our local food economy, and to make fresher, more nutritious and better tasting food available at all County events that are catered. Background: North Carolina has developed a statewide action guide for the support of a sustainable, local food economy. As part of this initiative, the 10% Farm to Fork Campaign has been launched to challenge families, businesses and institutions across NC to spend at least 10% of their food budget on products grown or raised in NC. As a state we spend $35 billion a year on food. Spending just 10% of that- about $1.0o per person per day - would mean $3.5 billion dollars annually for the local food economy of our state. In addition to the economic benefits, there are other food - related and environmental issues at the root of some of the most pressing problems we face today. 1. Dependency on Fossil Fuel Energy 2. Diet - Related Disease 3. Food Quality and Safety 4. Water and Soil Quality and Conservation 5. Air and Water Pollution Most food today travels about 1,200 miles to reach our plate. Buying locally can reduce that travel time (and associated costs), reduce carbon dioxide emissions (air pollution), and conserve energy. Buying food locally is good for Cabarrus County and North Carolina's quality of life through the protection of the natural environment, preservation of farmland and creation of new jobs. The Wellness for Life mission exists to create an environment that educates Cabarrus County employees, family and retirees and promotes positive lifestyles. The 10 percent NC food policy supports the wellness initiative to encourage employees to engage in a healthy lifestyle by eating food produced in North Carolina. Not only does local food taste better, buying local produce has a higher nutritional value. The most optimal nutritional value in fruits and vegetables is when they are picked at its ripest state. As soon as produce is picked and consumed, and not transported long distances, consumers will have greater health benefits. Eating in season also supports a diverse diet which ensures a range of vitamins and nutrients. Choosing foods from North G -4 Page 507