This month, schools and childcare centers across Texas will be recognized for promoting local foods and teaching children about healthy meals and Texas agriculture.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has initiated the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) 2024 Texas Farm Fresh Challenge. This annual event highlights schools and childcare centers that serve Texas-grown products, incorporate agricultural education, and share their efforts on social media. The event coincides with National Farm to School Month, making October a time to celebrate healthy school meals and honor the farmers, ranchers, and producers who contribute to this initiative.

"My vision for child nutrition starts with serving up good, nutritious food that kids actually want to eat," Commissioner Miller said. "The Farm Fresh Challenge gives a well-deserved pat on the back to our nutrition professionals for adding some Texas flavor to school meals with products grown and raised right here in the Lone Star State. Whether it’s beef or beets, our farmers and ranchers provide everything schools need to deliver that unmistakable taste of Texas that kids can’t get enough of."

Last year, the Farm Fresh Challenge led to nearly $14 million in spending on local Texas products—a 31.5% increase from 2022. Participants also contributed to adding 41 new agricultural producers to the TDA Farm Fresh Network, which now includes over 250 Texas producers ready to supply schools and childcare centers with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and more for federal nutrition programs. The Farm Fresh Network is a valuable resource for participants looking to connect with local growers and source homegrown Texas products.