American imports are massive. Everything from machinery, appliances, furniture, pharmaceuticals and so much more. Yes, we are even getting our prescription drugs from foreign countries. I realize it’s a global economy, but I also know we have to take care of business at home first. I don’t know about you, but for me, dependence on other countries is beyond scary, especially when it comes to our food: If we lose the ability to feed ourselves as a nation, we’re in real trouble.
Can there be such a thing as bringing something back from foreign producers? Short answer – yes.
WTFCF visited Splenda Stevia Farms, owned by Heartland Food Products Group, in Central Florida on May 3 to tell such a story.
By now you are probably wondering, What does Splenda have to do with this topic or with farming? Well, until very recently, there was no production of stevia — a plant-based sweetener — in the U.S. It was all grown in other countries, primarily China. Rather than rely on foreign imports, Heartland Food Products Group has entered the farming business itself with a stevia farm in Central Florida that will supply the plants to create an entirely American industry in partnership with small family farms. In fact, all Splenda products are made in America. Pretty cool. . .
To read all of Where the Food Comes From Producer Donna Sander’s behind-the-scenes perspective on this week’s episode, CLICK HERE.
