Connecting the Dots : Integrating Local Food in Western Wisconsin

Abstract

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports that 65% of adults are overweight and obese, which places our population at risk for chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Efforts to address the growing obesity epidemic include replacing unhealthy foods with local food products. This study examined the impact of locally-supported agriculture in Western Wisconsin, from perspectives of hospital and school administrators, farmers, food cooperative staff, and restaurateurs.