There’s a lot of agreement that many of our efforts to educate consumers/public about local organics results in “preaching to the converted”. My brain has been percolating on this for the last couple weeks, and I wanted to share my thoughts with you, and perhaps get your input on the issue.
I think a very good strategy for us to take would be to personally take up the cause and promote local organics to friends, family and colleagues. Each of us (who is reading this blog) likely has a favourite local organic product, so why shouldn’t we make a concerted effort to share that information with those around us?
For instance, I would gladly tell people how much my dog loves Katie’s Farm Dog Bakery snacks, or that Earltown Country Cheese makes the best feta (but, admittedly even I don’t share my opinions on food enough). However, when our local CSA announced that it was expanding for the up-coming season, I sent out the information and my endorsement to my neighbours and friends in town, which resulted in new memberships.
It’s true that if you have a bad experience, say at a restaurant, you’re likely to tell far more people about that, than if you just had Speerville’s New Found Oats for the first time and realized how awesome they were. We tend to dwell on negativity, but supporting local organic farmers and businesses is a great way to change that around. Our personal support and promotions are also far more effective than any marketing campaign, and really do make a difference for family farms and businesses. Local organic farmers and businesses really do need our support.
So, who is your farmer? Which organic products do you love and want to champion? Share the news that good food is all around us and worth seeking out.
ACORN the blog 