central illinois produce
Photo: iStock/ChViroj

Did you know your local greens may have been grown in a cargo container?

Central Illinois Produce began in 1967 and has since grown to include four warehouse locations across Illinois. The company provides fresh produce for delivery to customers and restaurants, with many downstate eateries featuring its products.

Recently, Central Illinois Produce partnered with the University of Illinois Department of Agronomy to develop a freight farm. Housed inside of a retired cargo container, the vertical hydroponic farm uses advanced technology to grow leafy greens.

In working with the university, Central Illinois Produce hopes to maximize the growing potential and efficiency of the farm, and supply fresh, local greens on a year-round basis. Though the amount of greens grown constantly changes and evolves, three core principles stay the same – a strong focus on flavor, nutrition and appearance. Additionally, the freight farm aims to have a minimal carbon footprint and focuses on green growing efforts.

To learn more about Central Illinois Produce and its freight farm, visit centralillinoisproduce.com.

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