1. Box content and participant detail

Holiday gift boxes now available from Idaho Preferred, the local-food unit of the state Department of Agriculture, feature contributions from more than two dozen businesses.

The nonprofit promotion, now is in its fifth year, aims to support local producers, according to a release from the department.

“This gift is more than a box of great tasting products,” said Erica White, Idaho Preferred program manager. “It has become a beloved tradition for Idahoans to share a bit of Idaho nostalgia for the holidays, and most importantly, it supports some of our local agricultural producers.”

This year, the product selection was increased and a producer showcase booklet was added.

Two “ag-artisan” gift boxes, each with different selections, are available.

A box costs $59 and has a retail value of $85, according to the department.

Box sales totaled 1,000 last year, up from 475 in 2021, White told Capital Press. Two new gift box options were introduced, and the number of participating producers increased from 14 to 26. Boxes were shipped to 46 states, and to Canada.

“This growth was complemented by enhanced consumer awareness through our marketing initiatives,” she said. Social media impressions exceeded 100,000.

The showcase booklet helps consumers learn more about each producer and encourages “continued support for local businesses beyond the holiday season,” White said. Exclusive coupon codes to the producers’ electronic commerce sites are included.