From farm to fork helps boost the local economy and support local farmers. By dealing directly with the farmer, money spent goes directly to helping them grow their businesses and benefit the local economy. Local farmers often focus on soil health, crop rotation, and cover crops, as well as using sustainable practices to benefit both the land and the community. The current focus and interest in concepts such as farm-to-table and local foods mean that the availability of these products is increasing.
This move means that the food on the restaurant table was made with ingredients obtained directly from a particular local farm or ranch, bypassing intermediaries. For one thing, you'd have to spend a lot of time looking for that food at the source, and most people simply don't have the capacity or resources to do so. Not only do local farms benefit the people who own them, they also tend to pay higher salaries than large agricultural companies and often treat land and crops in a more sustainable way. On the other hand, farms that practice sustainable agriculture tend to have a minimal impact on the environment and, at the same time, to maximize yield. There is no doubt that there are many people who need to choose the cheapest possible items at the supermarket, but there are many more who could spend a few extra dollars every week (and perhaps reduce their spending elsewhere) to support local agricultural businesses. By consuming packaged and processed foods, the profits of large corporations are increased, while eating in restaurants whose ingredients come from local farms, supports the growth of their own communities. Whatever definition you choose, knowing where your food comes from and the agricultural practices of the farmers who grow and produce it are important factors in choosing the best way to get food.
Since restaurants and farms have a direct relationship, diners are assured of having fresh ingredients on their plates. Farm-to-table restaurants provide an opportunity for people to support their local economy while enjoying fresh, delicious meals.
