Mendip and South Somerset Rural Food Initiative;

More than 25 independent retailers in Mendip and South Somerset have pledged to stock a wider range of locally produced food in their shops.
These shopkeepers have all joined the Rural Food Initiative, which brings retailers and producers together to offer the customer a wider range of locally produced food.

The Rural Food Initiative was successfully piloted last year in Mendip. This year, Somerset Food Links has introduced the Initiative to South Somerset area north. Local food tastings and other promotional events will take place in and around the Langport, Somerton, South Petherton and Martock over the coming months.

Unlike supermarket chains, which use national suppliers, independent shops are free to make their own buying decisions. So, for farmers and the food businesses that wish to sell their produce locally, working in partnership with independent shops is an ideal way forward.

The Rural Food Initiative, which has been designed by Somerset Food Links, is also intended to raise awareness of the benefits of locally produced food to the economy, the environment and the community.

Buying locally produced food circulates money in the local economy - each pound you spend on locally produced food generates at least £2.50 in additional local trading.

Food produced for local markets travels short distances between producer and consumer. This reduces air pollution and traffic congestion and improves the environment.

Local shops are integral to the life of the community. The Rural Food Initiative encourages people to put their local shop first.