This essay provides an introduction to a set of three essays on the community economics of local foods. In these essays the authors focus on the challenges of studying local foods and crafting effect policies.

What exactly do we mean by "local foods"? The local food label is a relatively new and still evolving label. This article strives to provide a more multi-faceted context of local foods through the lens of consumer perceptions, the nature of food system initiatives, and supply chain dynamics.

Numerous, largely untested, claims have been made concerning the possible benefits of local food systems for local economic and community development specifically with respect to economic clusters, social capital, quality of life, business development, and regional branding. Given the uncertainty, these are all fruitful areas for policy-relevant research.

Many initiatives have been introduced at Federal, state, and local levels to develop healthy local/regional food systems. Gaps often hinder the progress due to lack of coordination, communication, and collaboration. More efforts need to focus on establishing best practices that are driven by stakeholders’ interests and community needs to use limited resources efficiently.