The nationwide emergence of food hubs is an indicator that local food is becoming more readily available in higher-volume sales channels. The more than 300 food hubs operating around the country use a wide range of business models. All share the general function of helping farmers and other local food producers take their differentiated products to market.

These intermediaries provide customized aggregation, distribution, and related supply chain services. Food hubs also strive to deliver on local market promises—the good food values driving this sector’s growth. Good food is defined as food products and practices that are healthy for the body, green for the planet, fair for producers and workers, and affordable for all. Good food values range from concerns for public health and social justice to demand for local economic and environmental returns.