San Mateo County is rich in agriculture, yet most of the food grown here is not available to our residents. Instead, the food is processed and sold outside of San Mateo County, which limits local access to fresh and healthy foods, increases our carbon footprint, and takes valuable dollars out of our community and sends those resources elsewhere.

In San Mateo County, 

• Overall agricultural production increased 5.9% in 2014 to more than $152 million. Source
• 78% of the crops grown are floral or nursery crops. Source
• There are 21 certified farmers marekts. Many accept food stamps (also known as Calfresh or EBT, electronic benefits transfer) and many accept WIC (Women, Infants and Children) vouchers. Source

Find more Healthy Food data on our Healthy Neighborhoods data page. 

A sustainable food system produces high quality food for all, and protects the environment to ensure future generations’ needs are met by:

• Promoting the health of our residents by increasing access to healthy foods
• Benefiting the environment by preserving agricultural land and working waterfronts
• Reducing our carbon footprint
• Creating jobs for our local community
• Boosting tourism and business for local restaurants