Discover Delicious: University of Vermont Celebrates Local Cuisine at Vibrant Community Event

Students at the University of Vermont have something exciting coming up: Eat Like a Local Week! This event, organized by Sodexo, will celebrate locally sourced meals and connect students with local farmers.

Launched three years ago, Eat Like a Local Week aims to highlight local food systems and promote sustainability. This year, the celebration features Farm Fest and a special Taste of Vermont dinner. At Farm Fest, students can taste fresh foods from local producers, including UVM’s own Catamount Farm and the Proctor Maple Research Center.

During the Taste of Vermont dinner, each dining hall will showcase special recipes that use local ingredients. Last year’s menu included favorites like Stonehill Farm turkey with roasted veggies, maple-glazed tofu, and apple pie made from Champlain Orchards apples. Eco-Reps will also be on hand to chat about the Vermont First program and educate diners about the local ingredients.

Events like this give students a chance to connect with local suppliers. Nicole Reilly, a senior manager at UVM Dining Services, emphasizes that meeting farmers helps students understand the broader impact of their food choices. “When students meet the farmers and makers, food takes on new meaning,” she says. They realize that eating locally supports the environment and community.

UVM’s efforts in supporting local food have been ongoing for years. Since 2015, the university has partnered with the Intervale Center, a non-profit dedicated to food justice. This partnership has strengthened initiatives like farm incubators, which help new farmers get started.

Research shows that local food not only reduces the carbon footprint but also boosts local economies. A study by the USDA found that consumers are more likely to buy from local farms when they understand the benefits. This trend is growing, particularly among younger generations who are more aware of environmental issues and eager to support their communities.

In a world where food choices impact our planet, initiatives like Eat Like a Local Week make a real difference. They foster a deeper understanding of where our food comes from and its significance in our lives.



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