Michigan's Good Food Pledge aims to increase local sourcing during cyclospora outbreak

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) launched the Good Food for Michigan Pledge, a program that links schools, hospitals and other institutions with state growers to boost the purchase of Michigan‑grown foods. The initiative was announced as the state recorded nearly 9,600 cyclospora cases, with officials saying local sourcing improves traceability and reduces food‑borne illness risk.

Participants in the first year include Bendle Public Schools, Dearborn Public Schools and the Chippewa‑Luce‑Mackinac Community Action Agency. MDARD Director Tim Boring highlighted the pledge’s role in creating market demand for local farms and supporting community health. Dietitian Melanie Wong‑Tran and food services director Kayla McDaniel noted that sourcing nearby produce enhances nutrition, safety and supply‑chain transparency.

The pledge was developed in partnership with the Center for Good Food Purchasing, the Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems and the nonprofit Center for Good Food Purchasing. It emphasizes local economies, environmental sustainability, animal welfare and equity, and was unveiled at a farmers market at the state Capitol.