Arkansas’ first licensed urban farm working to provide healthy food locally

FORT SMITH, Ark (KNWA/KFTA) — Stoned Epicureans is Arkansas’s first licensed urban farm, providing microgreens to the community.

In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jennifer Blumthal found inspiration in the necessity, leading her to establish Stone Epicurean. Fueled by a desire to provide for her family, Blumthal began her journey in one of her spare rooms.

After realizing she needed more space, she moved to the Bakery District in Fort Smith. The business now stands as a way to offer green, lengthy vegetables to select schools and restaurants across the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas. They currently serve 13 different schools.

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Blumthal expressed her joy in partnering with local schools, emphasizing her commitment to educating students about the origins of their food. For her, her top priority is fostering connections with the community and instilling a sense of food awareness.

“My favorite part is the partnership with local schools; it’s rewarding to teach students about the journey of their food,” Blumthal said.

Looking ahead, Blumthal envisions Stone Epicurean growing to a scale where it can make a substantial impact on alleviating hunger.

“I hope Stone Epicurean can one day feed enough people so that no one in our community goes hungry,” Blumthal said.

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