Benefits of Local Produce Touted at Meeting

6/28/2012 (Updated 11:26:42 PM)

Eating local can mean eating healthy--and one group is trying to make both easier.
 
The Food and health network of South Central New York met today at the Broome County Health Department.

The group spoke about how strong local food systems can strengthen local economies.

It can also reduce diet-related illness, obesity, and hunger.

Participant Lauren Toni says,"Regional food is more whole, less processed and tends to have a lot more nutrients. It doesn't travel as far so there are a lot of holistic reasons why these foods are better for our overall health."

Organizers say that gearing policy toward making small and mid-sized farming viable will improve the availability of local food.