Comm'r Miller Launches Texas Farm Fresh Challenge for Schools

AUSTIN, TX — Texas Agriculture Commissioner, Sid Miller, recently announced the commencement of the 2024 Texas Farm Fresh Challenge, an initiative recognizing schools and childcare centers across Texas that prioritize local foods and promote healthy eating habits among children. 

According to a press release, this event aligns with National Farm to School Month, celebrating October as a time to honor nutritious school meals and the efforts of Texas farmers and ranchers.

Commissioner Miller emphasized the importance of providing nutritious meals that children enjoy. "My vision for child nutrition starts with serving up good, nutritious food that kids actually want to eat," he stated. 

He highlighted the challenge as a way to commend nutrition professionals for integrating Texas-grown products into school meals. "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.”

The previous year's Farm Fresh Challenge resulted in nearly $14 million in spending on local Texas products, representing a significant 31.5% increase from 2022. Additionally, the initiative welcomed 41 new agricultural producers to the TDA Farm Fresh Network, which now includes over 250 local producers supplying fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy for federal nutrition programs, noted the release.

For the 2024 Challenge, a new recognition tier called "Cream of the Crop" has been introduced to reward participants who excel in incorporating Texas-grown items into their menus. To support schools and childcare centers in achieving recognition, TDA offers a variety of resources, including curated Texas recipes, a Success Guide with actionable strategies, and educational materials such as flashcards and coloring pages.

Commissioner Miller reiterated TDA's commitment to connecting local economies with nutrition programs in educational settings in the release. Schools and childcare centers are encouraged to share their experiences and efforts on social media to engage the community further. 

For additional details about the Farm Fresh Challenge, visit SquareMeals.org/FarmFreshChallenge.