Winter is an especially difficult time to focus completely on local products. Unless you are dedicated to root vegetables, you are somewhat limited by selection. Certain parts of the country, obviously, have more options than others, but the local focus is especially difficult to maintain when the fruits from Southern Hemispheres beckon. True locavores start scoffing!

Now as we move into summer, we are seeing signs of local life. Little roadside stands are starting to pop up again and there are many more selections at the larger farm markets. Corn has made its way out of the fields and local strawberries remind us how sweet a taste they can provide. This is a good transitional season.

This week Chipotle Mexican Grill announced an even bigger commitment to locally grown produce. They slowly began the rollout two years ago and have continued to expand its offerings as part of its “Food with Integrity” program. When you select red onions, jalapeno peppers, and tomatoes, they come with a local assurance. In some states, such as California, the range of options is much larger as locally grown lemons and avocados are easy to add to the local farm list. The company’s goal is to find local produce that travels no further than 250 miles from its distribution centers. They manage to find over 70% of their produce from within 150 miles!

Chipotle wins the tip of the hat for its commitment to locally grown and sustainably raised ingredients and the fact that they score top marks within the fast food category for having more naturally raised meat than any of its competitors. These are all noteworthy markers that hopefully will become more imitated. They are the largest national restaurant buyer of locally grown produce!

We strive to be healthy eaters and finding a restaurant at an affordable price point helps make this a reality for more diners.