Wheatsfield Co-op Members and Shoppers,

Starting today, May 7, 2020, we are implementing purchasing limits on fresh meat from the co-op. Over the past 45 years, Wheatsfield has built strong relationships with our local farmers and producers not just because their food is delicious, but also because we know that a strong local food system increases our community’s food security and enriches our local economy. While we wish that circumstances were different, this has never been more apparent than it is now.

In response to recent news regarding potential supply shortages of fresh meat products due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to reassure our customers that we are in regular conversation with the local and regional farmers and ranchers that supply our co-op, and we do not foresee large-scale supply side disruptions to the availability of fresh and frozen meat products at the co-op at this time.

The majority of Wheatsfield’s meat products are sourced locally or regionally from smaller producers, meaning less distance to travel and fewer people involved from farm to table. We’ve spoken directly to our producers like Heartland Fresh Family Farm in Donnellson, Iowa, Ferndale Market in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, and Thousand Hills in Becker, Minnesota who assure us that they are taking additional steps to prioritize the health and safety of their workers and products during this challenging time.

Like all grocers, Wheatsfield has recently experienced temporary shortages of some products due to unprecedented demand. We expect even greater pressure on our meat supply now that there are severe disruptions in the conventional meat supply chain due to processors shutting down temporarily. We need to act now to make sure that everyone is able to buy what they need so we are implementing limits on the purchases of fresh beef, chicken and pork from our meat department.

Customers will be limited to 2 packages per type of meat – chicken, pork and beef – per purchase. Other items may have purchase limits instituted as well as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we try to ensure that we have ample supply for all of our customers!

Wishing you good health,

Wheatsfield Co-op Management