Tell us how you eat, cook and grow food in Maine. We want to hear from you
Portland Press Herald Seeks Maine Residents’ Food Stories in New Survey
The Portland Press Herald is reaching out to people across Maine to share how they eat, cook, and grow food, hoping to uncover trends and desires that could shape future food reporting and local culinary initiatives. The paper’s “Tell us how you eat, cook and grow food in Maine” initiative invites readers to complete a brief five‑minute survey and, for a select few, to participate in a follow‑up discussion that could earn them a $50 gift card.
The call to action, posted on the newspaper’s website at 10:14 AM on September 9, 2026, encourages anyone in the state to contribute. “We want to hear from you,” the editorial team writes. Participants will answer questions about their eating habits, local food sources, cooking practices, and any home‑grown produce they keep. The survey is designed to be quick and straightforward, aiming to capture a snapshot of Maine’s diverse food culture.
Those who complete the survey will have the chance to join a 45‑minute conversation with Press Herald staff. According to the announcement, “A small group of respondents will also be invited to a 45‑minute follow‑up conversation and receive a $50 gift card for their time.” The follow‑up sessions will allow the paper to dive deeper into specific experiences, uncover stories that might otherwise remain untold, and refine its future coverage of food and agriculture in the state.
While the article notes that the survey link is freely accessible—“Anyone can access the link you share with no account required”—it also highlights that the Press Herald offers a subscription that lets readers gift five articles each month. However, the survey itself is open to all, regardless of subscription status, and is presented as a community‑building exercise rather than a paid feature.
The initiative arrives amid growing interest in local food movements, farm‑to‑table dining, and the increasing importance of sustainable eating practices in Maine. By gathering firsthand accounts, the Press Herald aims to better understand what residents value in their food experiences and what gaps still exist in local food systems. The findings could inform future stories, feature pieces, and potentially support new community projects or policy discussions.
The survey has already attracted interest from a handful of respondents, and the paper says it will keep the community updated on any developments or upcoming interview opportunities. For those interested, the full survey is available on the Press Herald’s website and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Maine residents who wish to share their food stories and help shape the next wave of culinary coverage can start by filling out the survey now.
