‘Eat South Carolina Grits Day’ set for April 14

Conway Mayor Alys Lawson has declared April 14 “Eat South Carolina Grits Day” to celebrate the state’s official food and encourage people to buy and eat locally produced products. “Eat South Carolina Grits Day” also will recognize the many contributions made by the state’s farmers to South Carolina’s history and tradition.

Local farmers over the centuries have helped grits become a symbol of the state’s unique culinary traditions and evolve into an iconic staple enjoyed across the South. S.C. farmers are often regarded as some of the most significant producers of grits in the nation.

Palmetto Farms, a family-owned farm based in Galivants Ferry, began grinding grain in traditional stone mills and producing grits products in the early 1930s. This process had been handed down through the generations and remains one key difference when comparing real South Carolina grits with instant grits and other alternatives.

“As farmers born and raised in South Carolina, quality is extremely important to us because it’s a part of our state’s history and it’s a part of who we are,” said David Dorman, a third-generation owner of Palmetto Farms. “The grinding process to produce grits is often slow and by hand, but we enjoy creating this classic Southern food. People love grits, and we are proud to help this South Carolina tradition continue to thrive here and nationally.”

In honor of “Eat South Carolina Grits Day,” Palmetto Farms is offering all South Carolinians 25 percent off any grits ordered at www.PalmettoFarms.com through April 14. Use the code GRITSDAYSC when checking out.

For more information on S.C. companies that produce grits, visit www.sciway.net/shop/sc-grits.html.

This story was originally published April 9, 2015 at 8:00 AM with the headline "‘Eat South Carolina Grits Day’ set for April 14."