Due to the current unprecedented times we are facing, we are aware of the occurrence of food surplus at various points in our food system, as a result of food service industry closures and other supply chain disruptions. Concurrently, given economic and societal disruptions resulting from recent severe weather and COVID-19 impacts in Tennessee, we are also aware of an increasing demand for food from food banks across the state. If you are a farm, food service business, or other entity with surplus food, we can help connect you with local food banks in your area as well as work to identify other options for ensuring that edible food makes its way to those in need. For more assistance contact Ashley Cabrera (ashley.cabrera2@tn.gov) or Matt Taylor (matthew.k.taylor@tn.gov).

We created a document to provide regulatory context and examples of Tennessee food service establishments offering retail and grocery sales services. Adding these offerings has a variety of associated benefits for both the food service establishment and its supply chain. This has been identified as a best practice to support supply chain continuity and expand market access for produce and other agricultural products. Learn more about this opportunity HERE.