Idaho has close to 25,000 farms specializing in livestock and crop production producing more than 185 commodities. Our rich, fertile soils give life to incredibly nutritious food and livestock feed. Thanks to Idaho Preferred, taking home Idaho grown, raised or crafted foods from a local Idaho businesses is easy as apple pie (pun intended).

 

A measurable positive impact is seen when communities economically support small businesses. The movement to "shop local" puts your hard-earned dollars directly back into Idaho, allowing our farmers to continue the work they are passionate about. In turn, Idahoans can benefit by filling their fridge and tummies with all the diversity of freshly grown produce and products. 

 

By growing an extensive agricultural network of Idaho-based farms, ranches, artisans, and more, Idaho Preferred is your resource for meeting these producers in the real world. 

What is Idaho Preferred?

Founded in 2002, Idaho Preferred is a program of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. Its mission is to raise awareness amongst Idahoans on the diverse local food and agricultural products and experiences available throughout the state. Their members consist of over 350 Idaho-based companies that produce or craft food using Idaho agricultural ingredients. 

 

Following strict guidelines, these producers can earn the Idaho Preferred seal, which helps consumers across the state trust that what they're buying is fueling the local economy. Other resources from the organization include a statewide guide of farmers markets, an "in-season" buying guide, and community events that connect you with local farmers and ranchers. 

Grocery Shop with Idaho Preferred

The next time you go grocery shopping, look for the official Idaho Preferred seal on your desired products. This easily identifiable logo allows shoppers to identify quickly which products are made right here in Idaho using Idaho grown or raised ingredients. Shopping locally is available at most grocery stores, including national retailers.

 

You can find Idaho Preferred producers at:

 

• Local Farmers Markets

• Boise Co-op

• Lark & Larder

• Peaceful Belly Farm 

• M&W Markets

• Roots Zero Waste Market

• WinCo

• D&B Supply

• Albertsons

• Walmart

 

Search what fruits, vegetables, and more are in peak season right now with this handy What’s in Season Calendar and click on the product type to find a farmer, rancher, or producer near you here, 

More Info

 

Integrate local fresh food finds into weekly meal plans by seeking a little ag-minded recipe inspiration from Idaho Preferred’s Recipes here, https://idahopreferred.com/recipes/

 

How to Meet Idaho Producers

Having a direct relationship with your food growers is possible with Idaho Preferred. You can have a personal relationship with your food growers through farmers markets, u-pick farms, roadside stands, and online shopping. 

 

Farmers Markets within 50 miles of Boise:

• 36th Street Sunday Market - Sunday 10 am to 2 pm

• Boise Farmers Market - Saturday 9 am to 1 pm

• Capital City Public Market - Saturday 9:30 am to 1:30 pm (Summer), 10 am to 2 pm (Winter)

• Crouch Farmers Market - Saturday 9 am to 1 pm

• Eagle Saturday Market - Saturday 9 am to 2 pm

• Emmett Farmers Market - Wednesday 3 pm to 6 pm, Saturday 9 am to 1 pm

• Farm to Fork Farmers Market - Tuesday 5 pm to 8 pm

• Greenleaf Farmers Market - Wednesday 3 pm to 6 pm

• Meridian Main Street Market - Saturday 9 am to 2 pm

• Nampa Farmers Market - 9 am to 1 pm

 

Find locations and more information on nearby farmers markets here,

Farmers Markets Near You

Another way to support your local farms is signing up for Community Supported Agriculture, more commonly known as CSA. Here’s how it works: you pay upfront for a share of the future crop and on a regular basis throughout harvest season, you will receive a portion of freshly harvested produce, protein,  flowers, or other ag-products. A CSA is a great option to have the freshest locally produced products in your home.

 

CSAs Near You

 

Lastly, you can get the entire family involved with your food gathering by seeking out nearby u-pick and roadside stands. Make a day of traveling through Idaho's farming community, gathering delicious local produce.

 

U-Pick and Roadside Stands Near You

Local Events by Idaho Preferred

 

As if local farmers markets, CSAs, and u-pick farms weren't fabulous enough, Idaho Preferred proudly hosts various community events throughout the year. These events bring together family-friendly, food, and agritourism experiences for producers and consumers to meet. 

 

Browse upcoming events at the Idaho Preferred Community Calendar,

Idaho Preferred Community Calendar

 

Keep learning about Idaho Preferred and their phenomenal members online!

 

Idaho Preferred Website

Idaho Preferred Instagram

Idaho Preferred Facebook

For Boise, From Boise

The partnership of Totally Boise and Idaho Preferred is a match made in heaven. We are equally passionate about connecting Idahoans with local businesses and events to further strengthen our community. Our blog is a resource for everyone to learn what's happening nearby and read stories about those who live around us. 

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