On Oct. 22, the lunch menu at Central College will center on locally raised meat and produce. The All Iowa Day meal will be served in the Central Market from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Richard Phillips, director of campus dining, said this event is part of his goal to buy more ingredients locally. Central has held All Iowa Day in previous years, but Phillips said this year’s meal will feature more local foods than ever before — plus opportunities for students to interact with area farmers. Phillips has invited several local farmers to run stands in the Central Market. Vendors will include a popcorn tasting and cheese from Frisian Farms.
During lunch, students are also invited to attend seminars of their choice in side rooms, where they can learn more about growing and enjoying organic produce. A nutritionist will discuss the benefits of locally produced foods.
Phillips said using more local ingredients aligns with the college’s larger goals around sustainability, and he hopes to develop long-term partnerships with more local vendors.