Montana’s Food System: Quick History
Pre-1950s
During the first half of the 20th century Montana farmers and ranchers produced approximately 70% of the food consumed by Montana citizens. During the 1930s to the early 1950s Montana was a net exporter of value added processed foods such as fruits and vegetables, cheese, butter, meat and other commodities. During this period, Montana’s food production, processing, and distribution were localized to communities and were significant contributors to the economic and social well-being of Montana citizens. Montana possessed a food producing and processing infrastructure that fed its citizens primarily and supplied processed foods secondarily to neighboring states. Food processing alone employed nearly 3,000 people in the 1950s and provided the financial means for Montana citizens to acquire food derived from Montana sources. In addition, Montana’s locally based food supply chain ensured farmers and ranchers a fair share of the value chain for their products.
Post 1950s
In the latter half of the 20th century, Montana’s food system experienced dramatic shifts from a production and processing oriented food system to a commodity based food system. Federal and state policies, technological advances in each segment of the value chain and consumer preference all had varying degrees of influence on the changes to Montana’s food system. The results, though, have been dramatic and costly. Farmers and ranchers have experienced increases in production costs while earning less share of the value of their products. In 1910 farmers and ranchers earned on average $.60 for every dollar for their products and by 2007 their share value plummeted to an average of $.07 for every dollar. According to the 1985 U.S. Census, employment in Montana’s food processing sector was non-existent. The loss of stable well-paying jobs at each link of the value chain has resulted in over 30% of Montana citizens facing food insecurity, where they do not have adequate access to safe, nutritious and culturally appropriate food.
Food System Projects Around the State
Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center
