Analyzing Sustainable, Localized Food Production Systems With a Systematic Optimization Model

Localized food production and sourcing is drawing increasing attention due to environmental and health considerations. In this study, we used population, dietary and geographical information to map potential foodsheds with emphasis on minimizing total geographic distribution. We also developed innovative protocols, metrics and optimization methods to analyze the foodshed localization of geographic areas. We used data from Iowa to analyze and validate the optimization model. This study can also be extended to other regions outside of Iowa