Greetings from coastal South Carolina! We are happy to have the beach and the many local farms that provide fresh fruit and produce to what is known as the Grand Strand. This area extends over 60 miles and is home to several area communities that contribute to our veggie abundance through weekly farmers markets, roadside stands, and on-farm sales.

As I write this, we’re only a few weeks into autumn, and there is a noticeable change in the air. The nights are getting cooler, the days shorter, and the pumpkin patches and corn mazes are open for business. Fall planting is behind us here on the coast with the cool weather crops eagerly anticipated and soon to be plentiful. One crop in particular, peanuts, will keep our Carolina farmers busy through November. The signs dotting the drive into the beach have changed from touting the biggest and best watermelons to the freshest, most delicious, boiled peanuts on the Strand. They are truly a beloved snack in my Palmetto state.

While there is sheer peanut elation from most, the 0.6% of the U.S. population that has a severe peanut allergy will be looking forward to the end of this legume season. In this month’s Expert Tip below, I take a look at food allergens on the farm and how we can have crop/production diversity, as well as food safety!

Cheers,
Kim

Kim Butz, CFSA South Carolina Local Produce Safety Coordinator

PS – CFSA is looking for a new team member! If you’re experienced in fundraising and donor development, check out our jobs page for the development director position.