What is the New York State Grown & Certified Label?
New York State takes great pride in its rich agricultural heritage. As one of our state's most valuable assets, keeping the agriculture industry growing and thriving is essential. The New York State Grown & Certified program plays a significant role in ensuring this, by offering consumers assurance that the food they are buying is local, safe, and produced to a higher standard. This program, launched in 2016, requires participating producers to adopt rigorous food safety standards and enroll in an environmental management program, promoting sustainable farming practices across the state.
The New York State Grown & Certified label serves as a symbol of quality, indicating that the farms the products come from have been inspected for safe food handling and environmental stewardship. It tells a story of dedication and commitment, making it easy for consumers to identify foods that are responsibly and locally grown. For dairy farmers, this means adhering to strict guidelines that ensure the highest standards of food safety and environmental care, helping to protect New York’s natural resources while delivering nutritious and delicious dairy products.
Safety and sustainability are at the heart of the New York State Grown & Certified program. Dairy farms in the program must undergo audits to verify that they are minimizing risks of food safety hazards and are actively involved in protecting natural resources. This certification process includes compliance with food safety training, environmental stewardship programs, and providing necessary documentation to demonstrate their commitment. By doing so, they assure consumers that the dairy products they enjoy are produced with care and responsibility. Interested producers can apply by submitting an application to the New York State Department of Agriculture, along with required documentation for review.
Buying New York State Grown & Certified products is more than just a purchase; it's an investment in the local communities. Supporting local dairy farms not only helps to sustain the agricultural economy but also supports local jobs and contributes to the overall well-being of rural communities. Agriculture is a backbone of New York’s economy, supporting over 250,000 jobs, and programs like this ensure that our farms continue to thrive and provide for future generations.
An excellent example of the program’s success is Dygert Farms, a 13th-generation dairy farm. Known for their award-winning chocolate milk, the Dygerts are proud members of the New York State Grown & Certified program. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices and food safety has not only earned them accolades but also the trust of their community. By participating in the program, Dygert Farms showcases the essence of what it means to be a New York State Grown & Certified producer- dedicated to quality, sustainability, and community.
