There are many benefits for choosing "Locally Grown" produce over commercial produce. These benefits not only profit the grower, but the buyers and the economy.
For farmers and growers, cutting out the "middle man" enables them to sell at competitive retail prices. This activity, like the establishment of a farm shop, can enable small, family farms to remain viable.
For consumers, farmers markets enable easy, regular access to fresh, locally grown produce. A growing number of people are already seeking ways to buy direct from growers and producers, and a farmers market allows not only that, but a novel experience for consumers to talk to producers.
For communities, farmers markets allow people to come together, allowing connections and positive relationships to be built while keeping our food dollars in our own communities.
For the local economy, supporting local producers helps retain jobs and develop local services.
For the future, farmers markets can introduce a new awareness of local food and products. This awareness can lead to the use of these local products in restaurants and hotels of the area in which the farmers market is located and encourage our next generation to remain active in local agriculture.
PDF Handouts from Local Foods explain more of why it's important to purchase and eat local foods:
