![]() ![]() ![]() Ian identifies their role in food security right now: “veg boxes are so important because they allow people safe and convenient access to fresh fruit and vegetables when traditional outlets have struggled to meet demand. The Community Farm are currently selling about 1,100 veg boxes a week, which is almost double what they were selling prior to the pandemic. The Bristol Going for Gold bid has been paused for now, but the Going for Gold team’s #BristolFoodKind social media campaign focusses on acts of kindness that can support good food in the city – this includes buying from local, independent food providers who are under increased pressure because of the COVID-19 crisis. ![]() As Dan said: “We try and keep stuff really seasonal, which keeps people’s diets reflective of the environment”, fitting with the Going for Gold action of buying local. Veg boxes also give customers a significant connection with the land local, seasonal food and a sustainable way of eating. Schemes can focus on a variety of issues, such as supporting and enabling local growers by giving them a guaranteed and equitable route to market others might concentrate on customer convenience or encourage the use of ‘wonky’ veg that might otherwise get discarded. This allows customers to choose their veg box scheme based on the issues that they care about” said Ian. “The best thing about veg box schemes is that they tend to be transparent with regard to their values, partnerships and ethics. But what is it that makes veg box schemes especially important right now? I spoke to Ian Weatherseed from The Community Farm and Dan Broadbent from Tobacco Factory Community Kitchen to find out. Bristol is spoilt for choice when it comes to local veg box providers, and there is an extensive list of options with coronavirus services listed on the Bristol Food Network website. Many people are turning to local alternatives, with one of the most viable and popular options being veg box schemes. The importance of having a resilient, local food system has become more apparent than ever in recent weeks, with large, national supermarkets no longer able to provide their USP of a quick and convenient shopping experience. Bristol Food Network volunteer Isobel Cox looks at the rise in interest in veg boxes and the value of local supply chains. The Community Farm are currently selling about 1,100 veg boxes a week – almost double the sales before the COVID-19 crisis. ![]()
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