Against a backdrop of heightened consumer interest in locally sourced foods, Weis Markets, the quintessential local operator, said it is rolling out the nation's first locally raised fresh beef program.

The 156-unit supermarket chain will initially offer Pennsylvania Proud Choice Angus Beef, from Angus producers throughout the state, in 23 stores.

"Buying local is one of the hottest trends in food today, but it's been a hot trend for us since 1912," said Norm Rich, Weis Markets' c.e.o. "Pennsylvania has a vibrant agricultural economy known for its quality. Last year alone, we purchased more than 19 million pounds of produce from local Pennsylvania producers."

Rich said the Pennsylvania Proud Choice Angus Beef "is the logical extension of our commitment to buying and selling Pennsylvania's best products."

The grain fed, hand-carved Angus beef is aged a minimum of 20 days and features a full line of roasts, steaks, tenderloins and ground beef. The locally raised Angus cattle hail from farms in Lancaster, Schuykill and Chester Counties.

Rich and David Hepfinger, the grocer's newly appointed president and c.o.o., were joined at the kickoff of the new Angus beef line by Pa.'s Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff, members of the Pa. Beef Council and local Pa. Angus producers.

Weis Markets operates 156 stores in five states: Pennsylvania, where it operates 125 stores, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and West Virginia.