With the holiday countdown officially on, state agriculture officials are making a pitch to swap generic grocery store staples for ingredients grown closer to home this Thanksgiving.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson issued a call to action this week, encouraging residents to build their holiday meals around “Fresh From Florida” commodities. The goal is to highlight the state’s massive agricultural output, ranging from winter produce and dairy to Gulf seafood.
“Every Thanksgiving plate starts with a farmer,” Simpson said in a statement. “Fresh From Florida makes it easy for families to find locally grown ingredients that are perfect for their holiday meals. This Thanksgiving, we celebrate the farmers who make our food abundant, fresh, and full of flavor.”
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To help home cooks navigate local options, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) released two distinct menu guides. While they offer a “traditional” lineup, the department is notably promoting a “Coastal Thanksgiving” menu that leans heavily into the state’s seafood industry.
The curated lists suggest replacing—or at least supplementing—standard sides with dishes that utilize regional crops. Standout suggestions from the department include:
- Florida Stone Crab Claws paired with a Key lime mustard dipping sauce.
- Sweet Corn and Sausage Stuffing to replace the boxed variety.
- Turkey with Florida Citrus Brine for a localized twist on the main course.
- Florida Citrus Prosecco Crush for a holiday cocktail.
Officials are also using the holiday as an opportunity to get younger family members interested in cooking. Simpson highlighted the “Jr. Chef University” program, a self-paced curriculum designed to teach children culinary skills using Florida-grown ingredients. The initiative offers kid-friendly recipes intended to turn meal prep into a family activity rather than a chore.
Beyond the flavor profile, the state argues there is a practical economic reason to shop locally. By choosing products branded with the “Fresh From Florida” label, consumers directly support the state’s farmers and agricultural economy during their busiest season.
Residents looking for specific recipes or a guide to finding local growers can view the full menus online at FreshFromFlorida.com.
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