AUSTIN, TX — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller launched the Texas Department of Agriculture’s 2024 Texas Farm Fresh Challenge, urging schools and childcare centers to promote local foods, agricultural education, and healthy meals by serving Texas-grown products throughout October.
The challenge, part of National Farm to School Month, aims to highlight the importance of healthy school meals and support local farmers, ranchers, and producers.
“My vision for child nutrition starts with serving up good, nutritious food that kids actually want to eat,” Commissioner Miller said. “The Farm Fresh Challenge gives a well-deserved pat on the back to our nutrition professionals for adding some Texas flavor to school meals with products grown and raised right here in the Lone Star State. Whether it’s beef or beets, our farmers and ranchers provide everything schools need to deliver that unmistakable taste of Texas that kids can’t get enough of.”
Last year’s challenge led to nearly $14 million spent on local products, a 31.5% increase from 2022, and added 41 new producers to the TDA’s Farm Fresh Network, which now boasts over 250 suppliers. The program provides schools and childcare centers with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and more.
This year, a new recognition tier—Cream of the Crop—will reward participants who excel in incorporating Texas-grown items into meals. TDA offers resources such as curated Texas recipes, educational materials, and social media toolkits to support engagement.
For more information, visit SquareMeals.org/FarmFreshChallenge.
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