BETHS FARM KITCHEN
NYSGC AMBASSADORS
Supporting New York Farmers
At Beth's Farm Kitchen (BFK), our commitment to quality and community drives us to source the finest local ingredients for our artisanal products. As proud ambassadors of the New York State Grown & Certified (NYSGC) program, we ensure that every jar we produce not only delights your taste buds but also supports sustainable farming practices and local economies.
PURPOSE
Understanding the New York State Grown & Certified Program
Launched in 2016, the NYSGC program aims to bolster consumer confidence in New York's agricultural products by certifying farms that uphold rigorous food safety and environmental stewardship standards. This voluntary initiative connects producers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, and restaurants, all striving to meet the growing demand for high-quality, locally sourced foods. When you see the NYSGC seal, you can trust that the product is both local and produced to higher standards.
NEW YORK STATE PRIDE
As ambassadors of the NYSGC program, BFK actively promotes the benefits of certification to local farmers. We collaborate closely with producers to integrate their certified products into our offerings, ensuring that our customers receive the freshest and most responsibly sourced goods.
TRUST AND GROWTH
Benefits of the NYSGC Program
Enhanced Consumer Trust: The NYSGC seal assures customers of a product's local origin and adherence to stringent safety and environmental protocols.
Market Expansion: Certified producers gain access to new markets, including state-run institutions like schools and public facilities, thereby broadening their customer base.
Financial Support: Programs like the NYS Grown & Certified Agricultural Producers Grant offer funding to help farms meet certification requirements, covering up to 90% of project costs.
GET STARTED TODAY!
How to Get Certified
To join the NYSGC program, producers must:
- Complete the Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) Program: Achieve Tier 2 or higher in this voluntary initiative that aids farmers in protecting natural resources.
- Implement Food Safety Measures: Adopt recognized food safety standards and undergo audits to verify compliance.
- Apply for Certification: Submit the necessary documentation to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets for approval.
For detailed information and assistance, visit the NYSGC website.
GROWING OPPORTUNITIES
Blue Star Farm wanted to reach new markets but needed a way to certify their produce. With BFK’s guidance, Sue Decker found the solution through NYSGC.
GETTING CERTIFIED
Navigating the NYSGC Accreditation
Sue Decker of Blue Star Farm grows premium organic produce in Stuyvesant, NY. She knew her farm met the highest standards, but without the right certification, her products couldn’t access large-scale buyers like schools and state-run markets. Partnering with BFK, she completed the NYSGC application process, ensuring her farm met all food safety and environmental stewardship requirements.
NEW MARKETS, BIGGER IMPACT
How NYSGC Opened Doors for Blue Star Farm
With NYSGC certification in place, Sue’s farm could now supply state institutions, increase wholesale opportunities, and expand her reach. Even better, her produce became a key ingredient in BFK’s artisanal preserves, helping her farm tap into new revenue streams. Now, she’s part of a larger movement connecting New York farmers with customers who value fresh, locally grown food.
