New initiative aims to put more local food in hospitals, schools

Michigan has long been proud of its diverse agricultural profile. Many growers are active in the “buy local” movement through farmers’ markets and food hubs. Now, MSU and the Ann Arbor-based Ecology Center are launching the Michigan Food to Institution Network. Current State's Kevin Lavery spoke with Colleen Matts of MSU’s Center for Regional Food Systems. She feels the farm to institution network can be an engine that will help drive the buy local movement. Their goal is to have 20 percent of their food products come from Michigan growers by the year 2020.