News from New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets

For more information contact: Jessica Chittenden, 518-457-3136

Media Advisory - Commissioner to Kick Off "Eat Local" Challenge

Tuesday, August 5 – Commissioner to Visit 3 Local Food Stops in Albany

ALBANY, NY (08/04/2008; 1301)(readMedia)-- New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker will kick off New York State's "Eat Local" Challenge in Albany, challenging New Yorkers to eat only foods produced locally for one day this week, August 3-9.

Eating and buying local food is a win-win for everyone involved. Consumers can enjoy fresher and better tasting food, while more food dollars are returned to the farmer and thus stay within the local community. The challenge also supports the concept of "food miles," reducing the miles your food travels, resulting in fresher, healthier food that utilizes less energy.

New York is a diverse agricultural state that offers consumers an abundance of different fresh and local food choices. Especially now, in the peak of summer, there are numerous opportunities for consumers to connect with local food systems, several of which will be highlighted tomorrow.

All media are welcome and encouraged to attend.

WHO: New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker

WHAT: "Eat Local" Challenge

WHEN: Tuesday, August 5 at 3 locations in the Capital District

WHERE: 10 am - Honest Weight Food Co-op, 484 Central Ave., Albany

11 am - Lincoln Park Community Garden, Warren Street, Albany

12 pm - Indian Ladder Farm, 342 Altamont Ave., Altamont

For more information, please contact Jessica Chittenden with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets at 518-457-3136 (office) or 518-527-3949 (cell).