Our Responsibility:
Local Sourcing & Sustainability
Responsibility isn’t a single initiative; it’s reflected in every aspect of our business. From year-round local sourcing and chef-focused farm partnerships to waste diversion and community donations, we’re guided by a sense of responsibility to our partners, our community, and our planet.
Sustainability: Waste Reduction & Packaging
We treat food and packaging as resources, not trash. In 2024 we diverted 3,400 tons of food waste from landfill through commercial composting and anaerobic digestion pathways. Our Edible Cuts processing line composts fresh-cut odds & ends, we offer eco-friendly grab & go packaging options, and we’ve replaced traditional plastic produce breaks with biodegradable mesh.
Local Sourcing and Farmer Partnerships
“Local” at Midwest Foods means we source from farms across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan, and make local the default when seasonally available. We expand market access for small and underrepresented farms, work with cooperatives/aggregators for scale, and provide farm storytelling, item-level labeling, and a Local Availability Calendar so chefs can source with confidence.
Community Impact: Donation & Education
When product can’t be sold, we prioritize donation before diversion. Excess edible items are routed to community partners, while unusable product is diverted to compost or energy recovery—keeping food out of landfills and supporting local food access. Beyond product redistribution, we support causes close to our hearts through in-kind donations, providing fresh produce and goods to local nonprofits, schools, and community events that share our values. We also host farm tours, Midwest Markets, and chef education events to strengthen regional food systems and inspire the next generation of food leaders.
Credibility & Leadership
Midwest Foods is platinum-certified by the Green Business Benchmark, a certified Woman-Owned business (WBENC), and SQF-certified. Our Local & Sustainability and Marketing teams provide 1:1 account support, local reporting, weekly specials and updates, and ongoing marketing assets to make local sourcing practical for busy kitchens.
