Chipotle Goes Local

Chipotle Mexican Grill, the Denver-based chain, is trying to do its part to support local produce at its restaurants across the country.

According to the Eat.Drink.Better blog, this summer the company will buy 25 percent of at least one produce item from small and mid-size farms within 200 miles of each of its stores — so long as the produce is in season.

Supporting these local farmers may prove challenging for Chipotle, depending on the size of the farms near its restaurants. After conducting a supply-chain test, the company realized that smaller growers would have more difficulty delivering a product because of changes in the weather, so it may need to rely more on mid-size farms of about 500 to 600 acres.

Certain burrito and taco staples, such as avocados and organic beans, won't be part of the program, since they can only be grown on a large scale in particular climates. Other produce such as romaine lettuce, jalapeno peppers and green bell peppers will be included in the program.

Despite the above challenges Chipotle may face in launching this program, it's a positive step toward recognizing the importance that smaller, local farms can have in our economy.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user photofarmer.