The Local Food Field Guide
Straight talk on labels, seasons, and buying direct — so you shop smarter and support the farmers who actually grow your food.
March 22, 2026
A2 Milk
A2 milk comes from cows that produce only the A2 beta-casein protein — and for many people, it's the difference between tolerating dairy and not.
March 22, 2026
Raw Milk
Raw milk is unpasteurized, unprocessed milk straight from the cow — and it's one of the most controversial and sought-after products in the local food movement.
March 22, 2026
What Does 'Antibiotic-Free' Mean?
Antibiotic-free on a meat or poultry label means the animal was raised without any antibiotic drugs — but the label isn't always what it seems. Here's what it actually means, what it doesn't, and which labels to trust.
March 22, 2026
What Does 'Hormone-Free' Mean?
Hormone-free claims on meat labels are common but often misleading. Federal rules already ban hormones in pork and poultry. For beef, the distinction is real — but the label needs context to be meaningful.