Philly Loves Fresh is a campaign to promote fresh fruits and vegetables. It is a partnership among West and Southwest Philadelphia produce trucks and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. Neighborhood produce trucks offer affordable and convenient fresh produce, even as food prices rise. These licensed trucks are not new — some have been serving and enriching neighborhoods for over 30 years. Philly Loves Fresh aims to make sure everyone knows about them!
What is Philly Loves Fresh?
Philadelphia's Produce Trucks
ROOTED
Produce trucks are rooted in the community. Some have been operating for over 30 years in the same spot.
FRESH & HEALTHY
Produce trucks provide nutritious fruits and vegetables.
AFFORDABLE
Produce trucks have great prices.
NO WAIT
Produce trucks offer minimal wait time: Pick up your vegetables on the fly.
ACCESSIBLE
Produce trucks are typically open all day and year-round.
SAFE
Produce trucks operate with proper licenses and certificates.
UNIQUE
Produce trucks sell fruits and vegetables that are hard to find elsewhere.
Did you know?
Community Presence
Minimal excess produce goes to waste. Some trucks restock nearly everyday and donate extra produce to churches and mosques in the area. Other trucks donate their produce to those that cannot afford to purchase any. These produce trucks are rooted in their communities and are intentionally working to make eating fruits and vegetables the default choice.
Historical Context
Philadelphia has a rich history of street vending from ethnic enclaves, including of soft pretzels, hot dogs, and even hoagies. Changing U.S. laws accelerated immigration in the 1990s and resulted in an influx of African immigrants who transformed the economic, social and political landscapes of West, Southwest, North and Northeast Philadelphia. Produce vending was first a means of survival for entrepreneurs from these immigrant communities.