The Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s annual celebration of Connecticut Grown foods, CT Farm to Chef Week, is scheduled for September 13-19. Restaurants, cafes, caterers, cafeterias, food trucks, bakeries and other dining establishments register to participate in this event and partner with local farms to showcase Connecticut Grown foods on their menus.

Consumer interest in eating food grown close to home continues to rise. The trend stems from a desire to eat fresh, nutritious food while supporting the local economy, preserving open space and protecting the environment.

To support the program, promotional materials are distributed to each participating venue by the state Department of Agriculture and a media campaign will call attention to the event by attracting diners.

Guidelines, requirements and registration forms for interested businesses are available on the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s website at CT.gov/doag/cwp/view.asp?a=2778&q=330830.