Paul Jones In September 2020, Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler announced the creation of the Increasing Meat Production Efficiency and Capacity (IMPEC) grant program, administered by the NCDA&CS. The $20.25 million grant program aims to strengthen the meat supply chain and ensure consumers have adequate sources of protein. A year ago, the average shopper may not have … Read more
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, has revealed the app’s true potential and continued success. Now, more than ever, consumers value local food purchases and supporting their local economies, creating a unique market for the Visit NC Farms app’s relevancy and flexibility for both farms and consumers. By investing in the app, communities have … Read more
North Carolina is home to the fourth-largest military population in the nation, with more than 145,000 military personnel residing in the state. While it is easy to see the impact of the military on the state’s economy, learning how to sell ag products to the military can be more of a challenge. That’s why the … Read more
The N.C. Specialty Foods Association celebrated its 25th anniversary last month with a reception at the Angus Barn in Raleigh. The group, which promotes locally made gourmet food and specialty products, held its inaugural meeting at the Angus Barn on April 11, 1994. The original organization had 50 members. Sandi Ford, of Bone Suckin’ Sauce … Read more
The N.C. Specialty Foods Association announced winners in its 2018 Product Competition, held Sept. 7 in Bermuda Run. This year’s competition was one of the largest yet, with 82 entries submitted across seven categories. Mike D’s BBQ was named Grand Champion for its All Purpose Dry Rub. The Durham-based company offers award-winning products that are … Read more
The N.C. Vegetable Growers Association recently wrapped up its “Thrill the Grill Challenge”, which asked grill masters to submit their favorite grilled-vegetable recipes ahead of the summer cookout season. Lisa Chestnutt of Hyde County earned first place with her recipe for Hyde Grilled Vegetable Medly. The dish earned her bragging rights and a John Deere … Read more
If your farmers market is thinking about promotions this year, consider applying for cooperative advertising funding from the department. The funds, which are made possible through a grant from the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, will pay half of the total cost of your 2018 advertising up to $2,500. “There are more than 250 farmers … Read more
North Carolina farms that welcome visitors can take advantage of the 2018 Agritourism Marketing Cost-Share Grant available through the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Deadline for application has been extended to March 16, 2018. The $100,000 grant, which is funded by the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, is available for individual farms or … Read more
Organizers have something special planned for this year’s N.C. Aquaculture Development Conference in New Bern March 7-10. On Friday, March 9, seafood lovers can take part in the Cultured Seafood Festival, an all-you-care-to-eat feast. Chef James “Smoke” Boyd, owner of The Flame Catering and Banquet Centre, will prepare a variety of aquaculture dishes featuring farm-raised … Read more
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, now is the time to plan a romantic evening for your special someone. If you’re looking for a way to make the night extra special, try uncorking a bottle of N.C. sparkling wine. We’ve compiled a list of five, delicious sparkling wines that you can enjoy this Valentine’s Day … Read more
