From Field to Future: Why August Matters for Alaska’s Food Security

August in Alaska is magic. Fields are at their peak, root cellars are filling, and farmers are
pulling in more potatoes, carrots, greens, and berries than any other time of year. But here’s the reality—if we don’t preserve this abundance now, most of it will be gone before the first snow settles.

At Alaska Food Co., we make sure the best of summer sticks around long after the season ends. Our freeze-drying process locks in flavor, nutrition, and freshness so Alaska-grown food can be served in schools, correctional facilities, and emergency programs year-round.

Why This Month Is Critical
Our growing season is short and intense. Farmers often have more produce than they can move before it spoils. Buyers—especially in remote areas—struggle to get local food oncewinter sets in. Freeze-drying changes that. Broccoli harvested in August can be in a January school lunch. Blueberries picked this week can still be on the menu next spring.

No Waste, Big Impact
Every August, thousands of pounds of food risk going unused—sometimes because of bumper crops, sometimes weather damage, and sometimes sheer volume. We partner with farmers to rescue that surplus, process it quickly, and turn it into lightweight, nutrient-packed food that can travel anywhere in the state. Every pound preserved now is one less pound flown in from out of
state later.

Partners, Not Just Processors
We work directly with producers to meet their needs, from fair pricing to custom packaging. And we collaborate with institutional buyers to plan menus around what’s available locally. This loop
keeps Alaska food in Alaska, supporting both farmers and communities.

Think Beyond the Season
If you’re a farmer, let’s talk before your busiest harvest week to make sure nothing goes to waste. If you’re an institutional buyer, now is the time to secure your orders so your shelves are
stocked with the best of Alaska’s 2025 harvest.

Whether you’re planting, picking, or planning menus, connect with Alaska Food Co. this August. Together, we can turn today’s harvest into tomorrow’s meals—and build a stronger, more resilient Alaska.