This paper outlines the opportunities in each of the major steps along the food supply chain. The analysis is informed heavily by three local food economy assessments. It has also been informed by past engagements with investors and intermediaries working across the food chain with a broad range of objectives.

This report contains recommendations developed by the New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee. The recommendations address ways the city and state officials can support increasing the number of retail outlets that sell fresh fruits and vegetables in communities that desperately need them.

The City of New Orleans prioritized healthy food retailing in the strategic rebuilding of the city by creating the Fresh Food Retailer Initiative Program (FFRI). The program provides direct financial assistance to retail businesses by awarding forgivable and/or low-interest loans to supermarkets and other fresh food retailers.