Smarter food — that’s the latest innovation by IBM researchers. Using radio-frequency identification (RFID), the firm offers traceability by tracking meat, poultry, and other food items from farm to table. “The average meal has been through a complex supply chain by the time it reaches the dinner table,” says IBM. “Dozens of companies are involved in the production of just a single rib eye steak.”

At Capay Valley Farm Shop, a smart food system already exists, albeit on a local level. Our produce is grown, harvested, and packed locally by each farm. We deliver it to you, and let you know who grew it. One farmer, one supplier, one consumer. Direct markets such as ours enable consumers to know not only the precise origin of their food, but they drastically reduce the “complex supply chain” into a one or two step link.

Here’s how we define a smart food system:

1. Health and wellness. Learning from science and ancient cultures, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, olive oil, sustainably-raised meats and other healthful foods are a cornerstone of human health and longevity. Humans require easy access to such necessities.
2. 100% source identification. Knowing the farm that grows the food you eat allows full transparency. This demands producer accountability and creates consumer trust and confidence that food is safe.
3. Short-linked supply chains. Minimizing steps between production and consumption ensures freshness, maximum nutrition, and delivers value.
4. Low carbon emissions. Aggregating food from within a hundred miles of its production and transporting it directly to customers minimizes energy use.
5. Strong local economies. Spending dollars locally helps keep your neighborhood small farms and businesses thriving and your dollars re-circulating.

We think that a system that delivers all of the above is a smart food system — good for people, community, and the planet.

Related posts:

• Getting to the Root of Food Safety
• The Kitchen Project @ Sequoia High Teaches Youth to Cook Good, Clean, and Fair Food