L A N C A S T E R M E D I C A L S O C I E T Y.O R G
to them. Lancaster County, with its plentiful access to fresh produce and strong commitment to supporting local businesses, has naturally become a part of this trend. In 2004, Lancaster County boasted just one farm that offered a “farm share” program to area residents; today, there are 12 local farms participating.
October Lancaster Physician
In addition to local families, medical professionals have also found value in the CSA “buy local” concept. According to local nutritionist Carol Spicher, besides supporting local agriculture, medical practitioners are focused on incorporating more whole, nutritionally-rich foods into their diets and their patients’ diets.
Eating out of the (CSA) Box COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE: ACCESS TO LOCALLY-GROWN PRODUCE OPENS OPPORTUNITIES FOR LANCASTER COUNTY RESIDENTS TO MAKE HEALTHFUL CHOICES PHOEBE CANAKIS OWNER AT PHOEBE’S PURE FOOD
W
ith a growing number of people in tune with the taste – and nutritional benefits – of local, freshly picked, in-season fruits and vegetables, Community Supported
Agriculture (a.k.a. CSA) has sparked a lot of interest nationally. CSAs allow local residents and organizations to buy shares of locally-grown produce and either pick it up or have it delivered LANCASTER
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PHYSICIAN
Joining a CSA helps not only support local growers and prevent local farms from disappearing, but it also provides health benefits to participants. Fruits and vegetables that are at their peak freshness taste their best (which means people are more inclined to eat them), and they offer optimal nutritional value, which may help reduce the risk of some diseases. In Lancaster County, CSAs offer an opportunity for more healthful eating to a community that as a whole suffers from diseases directly attributable to poor diet and obesity. Data from the PA Department of Health suggests that 64% of adults in Lancaster County are overweight or obese, and 54% of Lancaster County youth are overweight or obese.