A “food system” is a network of all the processes, people, and resources involved in getting food from the farm to your plate. This encompasses everything from growing, processing, distributing, selling, eating, and even disposing of food, and it includes all the needed inputs (think water, technology, and energy) needed to make these processes happen. The system involves a wide range of participants – including you! Farmers, food processors, distributors, food outlets like restaurants, stores, and markets, consumers, and food recyclers each play a part by growing, moving, preparing, or enjoying food.
Local food systems are networks of food production, distribution, and consumption that operate within a specific geographic area. The City of Phoenix defines the geographic area of is local food system to be Maricopa County. In local food systems, food is grown and consumed within close proximity. This reduces the distance that food has to travel to get from farm to table, which reduces pollution and our dependence on fossil fuels. It also increases the trust and connectedness between growers and consumers, benefits the local economy by creating local jobs, helps farmers make more on their produce via direct sales, and ensures consumers have a reliable supply of fresh food.
