Food Councils & Conferences

WHAT ARE FOOD POLICY COUNCILS? (FPCs)

Food Policy Councils (FPCs) are groups that bring diverse stakeholders together to address a community's food system issues at the local, state, or regional level. They work to create, coordinate, and implement policies that improve access to healthy and affordable food, support local agriculture, and build a more equitable and resilient food system. These councils often have a cross-section of members, including government, non-profits, farmers, public health professionals, and community representatives, and can be structured in various ways, such as being housed within a government department or a non-profit organization.  

Key functions of Food Policy Councils

• Policy and systems change: FPCs identify and address systemic problems within the food system that are too complex for any single entity to tackle alone. 

• Coordination and strategic planning: They serve as a central point for coordinating efforts, setting strategic goals, and monitoring progress for food-related initiatives within a specific area. 

• Advocacy: While some FPCs take on an advocacy role, regional councils often position themselves as neutral advisors, providing information and policy guidance to multiple governments and jurisdictions. 

• Community engagement: They provide a platform for community members and organizations to have a voice in shaping food policy and ensuring that policies are acceptable and equitable. 

• Economic development: Some FPCs focus on issues like expanding food-related businesses, creating jobs, enhancing agricultural viability, and promoting the purchase of local foods. 

• Promoting health equity: They work to increase access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food for all residents, with a particular focus on communities that experience health and economic disparities. 

Who is involved?

• Government agencies (e.g., city or county departments)
• Non-profit organizations
• University extension offices
• Public health professionals
• Farmers, ranchers, and producers
• Community and grassroots groups
• Food businesses and retailers
• Social service providers