These Chickens Aren't Free Range, But They Are Florida Fresh

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is teaming up with Pilgrim's Pride, a North Florida poultry processor, to let Florida consumers know they can choose chicken raised right here in the Sunshine State.

"Shoppers at Sam's Clubs across Florida can now look for the colorful 'Fresh from Florida' logo and be assured that the chicken they are buying is the freshest they can get," Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson announced.

"Fresh from Florida" chickens are processed in Live Oak, where officials note that the Suwannee River Partnership has reduced nitrate levels in regional waters.

Buying food that is produced closer to home is also environmentally sound. Estimates indicate that the average fresh food item travels about 1,500 miles from farm to table, a costly trip in terms of air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions.

In Suwannee, Lafayette and Madison counties, the poultry industry has an overall economic impact of $347 million annually, supporting nearly 100 farms and creating 3,700 jobs, the state reported.

Bronson's office said other retailers are expected to join the "Fresh from Florida" program in the upcoming months.