The Georgia Restaurant Association and the Georgia Department of Agriculture have partnered to promote locally grown foods.

The agencies announced they're launching the Georgia Grown marketing and branding program to highlight and expand the state's agricultural industry. Georgia Department of Agriculture officials say the partnership reflects the public's growing interest in locally grown food and supporting local farmers.

With more than 16,000 restaurants in the state, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black says the program is also aimed at nurturing relationships between farmers and local chefs. Georgia Restaurant Association Director Karen Bremer says restaurants are increasingly planning menus around locally grown foods, and the program will help them ensure customers they're being offered top tier, locally grown foods.

Tags: Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Restaurant Association, Local Food, Georgia Grown, farm to table