There are many reasons to buy local San Diego born and raised produce. Buying local produce supports San Diego farmers and the local economy, reduces the environmental impact of transportation, helps preserve local specialty varieties and the genetic diversity of crops and offer superior taste and nutrition. To support local farmers, retailers and restaurants in serving locally grown produce, Live Well San Diego Recognized Partner the San Diego Farm Bureau has created the San Diego Grown 365 brand.
San Diego Grown 365 gives San Diego producers an edge in the marketplace. It is a trademark that has been in use by San Diego farmers since its development in 2004. The mark is a magenta sunburst with white lettering spelling out San Diego Grown 365 and resembles a quality seal of approval with 365 referencing San Diego’s ideal year-round growing climate.
The San Diego Farm Bureau saw early on that members could realize greater sales by identifying themselves as local producers. It has taken time, but now the idea and the brand are starting to stick. Many local wineries are using the brand to promote and identify San Diego wines, as well as multiple food producers like Mountain Meadow Mushroom, Sundial Farm, and Eben Haezer Poultry Ranch.
Any San Diego County grower may sign a short and simple agreement to use the label at no cost and start identifying their products as locally grown. This innovative program is right in step with current consumer sentiment of desiring to buy local.
The San Diego County Farm Bureau also created the San Diego Grown Exchange tool to help local farmers find retail stores, restaurants, distributors and institutional buyers interested in sourcing locally grown products. On the exchange site local farmers and buyers can meet and then make a direct connection for transactions.
To get more information about the San Diego Grown 365 brand and exchange visit the San Diego Farm Bureau’s website or contact Casey Anderson at (760) 745-3023.
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