Popularity of Farmers Markets
New programs and rising interest are making farmers markets a hit.
Green Growth
Once requiring a day trip to an often out-of-the-way area, today's visit to the farm market is easier than ever as more and more farmers markets crop up across the country. According to the Agricultural Marketing Service division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the number of operating farmers markets in the United States grew more than 18% between 2004 and 2006, to over 4,300 markets nationwide. This study is published every two years, with updated numbers due out some time in 2008; check out the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service website for information.In addition to farmers markets being closer at hand, they are also becoming accessible to a larger portion of the population. For instance, more farmers markets are beginning to accept food stamps, according to Associated Press. The Federal Food Stamp Program is also helping to equip more farmers markets with debit card capabilities, according to an article published in the Hartford Courant. This move is helping both consumers and farmer as the markets begin to experience a rise in sales due to higher traffic, the Associated Press says.
Back to Nature
The drive toward farmers market shopping is partially fueled by consumer interest in more natural foods, according to produce data professionals. With more than 66% of U.S. adults currently overweight, according to the Center for Disease Control, people are looking for healthier options. The farmers market, which often stocks fresh dairy and whole-grain breads in addition to produce, is a one-stop choice for U.S. consumers looking to make a positive change.Many individuals are also part of the organic foods movement, an ideology that began as early as the 1960s, and continues to grow. However, consumers should be aware that farm grown does not necessarily mean chemical- or irradiation-free. Shoppers looking for produce that is free of most major pesticides, antibiotics and other negative additives should seek certified organic foods. Watch out for misleading words such as "natural" or "farm grown" -- without USDA-approved certification, the product has not been assessed and determined to actually be organic.
Farmers Markets in Your Neighborhood
With such impressive growth, it may be easier than you think to find a farmers market in your area. Look online, search your local newspaper or thumb through the Yellow Pages for listings. The Agricultural Marketing Service also offers a searchable webpage that can help you find a market in your area.If you're worried about the cost of farmers market produce (think of the 1980s, when trendy market prices rivaled and sometimes even exceeded supermarket costs), think again. The farmers market is becoming an economical choice as higher sales allow farms to keep prices low. With such benefits and with consumer interest on the rise, the growth of the farmers market can be expected to continue, experts say. The trend may potentially help fuel a flagging economy -- and improve personal health in the process.
Written by: Melanie Henson
