Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) has become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. “CSA” has become synonymous with a weekly or biweekly box full of local, in season fruits and veggies.
A farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share (aka a “membership” or a “subscription”) and in return receive a box (bag, basket) of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.
BENEFITS FOR CONSUMERS:
- You’re supporting local food production. A great way to support your local economy is to put your money right back into it.
- You’re eating in season. CSA’s are only able to sell what they’re able to grow so what you get will be the freshest of what’s in season. Therefore you get ultra-fresh food, with all the flavor and vitamin benefits.
- You get to experiment with different types of produce. With a CSA, you’re constantly getting exposed to new vegetables and new ways of cooking.
- It saves money and waste. Buying directly from farmers cuts out the middlemen and transportation costs, helping you save money. It also ensures that less food wasted in transport.
- You are using less greenhouse gases. Buying food locally means food is not shipped around the world using fuel and creating greenhouse gas emissions.
- You get to know your farmer. You can develop a relationship with the farmer who grows your food and learn more about how food is grown.
Learn more and sign up for a Minnesota Grown CSA here.