Co-op Statement on Local Meat Availability

Co-op Statement on Local Meat Availability

May 7, 2020

(Brattleboro, VT) – Over the past 45 years, the Brattleboro Food Co-op has built strong relationships with our local farmers and producers not just because their food is delicious, but also because we know that a strong local food system increases our community’s food security and enriches our local economy. While we wish that circumstances were different, this has never been more apparent than it is now.

In response to recent news regarding potential supply shortages of fresh meat products due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to reassure our customers that we are in regular conversation with the local and regional farmers and ranchers that supply our co-op, and we do not foresee any supply side disruptions to our availability of fresh and frozen meat products at the co-op. Although, only time will tell if that shifts in the coming weeks.

The majority of Brattleboro Food Co-op’s meat products are sourced locally or regionally from smaller producers, meaning less distance to travel and fewer people involved from farm to table. We’ve spoken directly to our local producers like Hardwick Beef in Fairhaven, VT and Misty Knoll Farms in New Haven, VT who assure us that they are taking additional steps to prioritize the health and safety of their workers and products during this challenging time.

Like all grocers, the Brattleboro Food Co-op has recently experienced temporary shortages of some products due to unprecedented demand. We want our customers to know that these shortages are not due to any shortage in supply and nationally experts are optimistic about the security and stability of our food system. Often times we are experiencing shortages due to the excessive purchases from shoppers. We ask that you consider your community members and only purchase what you require. We may consider limiting the amount of specific cuts of meat if we continue to experience shortages due to shopping patterns. We hope that this is not necessary but we ask you to stay tuned.

Thank you for choosing to shop at your Brattleboro Food Co-op. We are proud to serve our community and we thank you for choosing to support a local business that prioritizes local farmers, producers and community organizations. Together we will make it through this difficult time.

For further information or inquiries contact;

Jon Megas-Russell, Marketing and Community Relations Manager

[email protected]

802-246-2813