“We hope that next year, all our colleges will have the organic label. » This was the wishful thinking expressed by the vice-president of the departmental council, Annie Messina, during a visit to the André-Crochepierre college in Villeneuve-sur-Lot, in mid-November. The latter had just received the sacrosanct label granted to educational establishments which include at least 20% products from organic farming in their canteen menus. “In Lot-et-Garonne, we reach 25%, and 80% fresh and local products,” emphasized Annie Messina. The objective for us is to provide healthy and sustainable food to students, but also to put our producers to work. »
Thus, the Department does not exceed 30 kilometers beyond its borders to collect its suppliers. As when he signed a contract with the Elvea 47 association and Bernard Couffignal, an organic veal breeder for around twenty years: “Thanks to this type of market, we not only have the guarantee of a price which allows us to live, but also a perspective of the number of kilos we will sell. » The Department is in fact committed to purchasing three to four organic calves per week from Elvea, from around fifteen breeders.
Departmental sector
“This brings to life an entire industry established in the department,” continues the president of Elvea 47, Joël Labat. Because we have the calves slaughtered in Villeneuve-sur-Lot and the cutting is done with the Marasset company, in Layrac. » “And then, there is also an appreciation of our work,” adds Bernard Couffignal. We know where the meat we produce arrives and who eats it. »
Meat is not the only food product concerned, since the Department also buys organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products, etc.: “While guaranteeing a meal at the price of 2 euros for students,” adds Annie Messina. The vice-president of Departmental Council hopes, next year, to reach 100% of colleges with the organic label.
