Written by Emma Weber
Access to quality produce is right around the corner. Many Searcy establishments, such as Burrito Day, Daisy’s Lunchbox, The Natural Food Store, Wild Sweet William’s and others, are taking advantage of local produce for quality ingredients.
Lisa Ford, owner of Wild Sweet William’s, is one of those who enjoys sourcing produce locally.
“I know that the farmers we are buying from believe in rehabilitating the earth,” Ford said. “They are feeding it; they are giving the nutrients they need. They are taking care of it, so we are getting produce with nutrients in it.”
Ford has seen benefits in the quality of produce she is receiving in the beauty, health and taste of the produce. But what Ford enjoys most about her local produce is the relationships that come with it.
“Relationships are everything to us,” Ford said. “We are a team who works together to create something that Searcy can enjoy and brings life to the community. … These are our friends. These are our neighbors, and we want them to thrive. I want to support my friends and neighbors so any time I can keep funds local and help take care of friends or neighbors is important to me.”
One market that uses local produce is The Natural Food Store. One of their core values is their dedication to partnering with local farmers, according to their website. Eric McMullen, co-owner and nutrition specialist, said there is an importance to being in a loving relationship with your food.
“It’s fresher, healthier and you are in a loving relationship with it,” McMullen said. “Food from a fast-food chain or big grocery store, six or seven people have been involved with that food, and you probably don’t know any of them. You are totally disconnected from the food, and it, even on a spiritual level, doesn’t serve you, as well. Local produce is a living, breathing part of every healthy and loving community, and it’s the heartbeat of the community.”
Five Acre Farms, owned by Brandon Gordon, is an active member of providing produce for the community. Gordon is proud of the quality of his produce. He said he believes that when you prioritize ethically sourced food from around the corner, you are getting a better product. In addition, Gordon is proud to keep money local.
“It goes into these places like Burrito Day or Wild Sweet William’s buying our stuff,” Gordon said. “They pay — it’s just very cyclical.”
After some changes in staff, Gordon is now responsible for the actual harvest of the food. To Gordon, this is a very rewarding task. He said he enjoys getting to see how the product gets to the local markets to be sold.
“It’s really nice just to see the end product packaged up and heading out to all the places here,” Gordon said. “Just seeing something you can be proud of and how good it looks and knowing it’s something people want — it’s just a good feeling.”
