Every year, Iowans spend approximately $12.6 billion on food. Unfortunately, much of that money does not stay within the state. In order to bring some of this spending back to Iowa, the Iowa Food System Coalition has launched the Iowa Local Food Challenge. By inviting Iowa consumers to spend more of their dollars on Iowa-grown food, the challenge aims to shift food spending back into Iowa communities, which would support farmers, strengthen local markets, and build back a more resilient food system in Iowa. Tommy Hexter, executive director of the Iowa Food System Coalition, said Iowa has the best soil, which means farmers here can grow the best food available.
Hexter said there are also many products outside of food that rely on Iowa-grown produce and livestock.
The challenge encourages consumers to go out of their way to find local food products. Hexter said they also have some resources that participants will receive throughout the season.
Hexter added that he could see more farmers diversifying their operations and providing even more local food options in the future.
Early participation is already building momentum statewide. In the first weekend, nearly 100 Iowans signed up for the challenge, representing more than $91,000 in committed local food spending. The Coalition has set a collective goal of directing $200,000 toward Iowa-grown food during the challenge, with progress tracked publicly as participants sign up and begin shifting their food purchases.
For more information or to join the challenge, visit iowafoodsystemcoalition.org./challenge.
