Farmers Markets
Farmers’ markets are a great place to buy and sell local produce. It is an excellent way to meet local farmers and market gardeners and get fresh, flavorful produce. Farmers’ markets are a growing trend across the country and a great method for farmers to market directly to consumers and a fun event for shoppers. Consumers enjoy fresh, seasonally-grown food. Consumers love buying direct from the farmer or producer. It fills the desire of consumers to meet and know where their food comes from. Farmer’s markets are a great way to accomplish that and also to help local producers access and fulfill local demand by consumers to buy their food locally. Farmer’s markets create community and a sense of place that brings people together to socialize and enjoy fresh local food.
The Glacial Hills Food Center encourages people to grow their own food by planting gardens and raising more fruits and vegetables or purchasing those items from a farmers’ market. Locally grown food is fresher, taste better and is more nutritious than processed food. Local food is healthier than food that is stored and shipped thousands of miles. Purchasing local foods reduces ‘food miles’ and lowers the ‘carbon footprint’ of our food consumption. It is also good for the local economy - buying directly from family farmers and individuals helps them be successful in business.
To locate a farmers’ market near you visit www.ksfarmersmarkets.org.
The Glacial Hills Food Center can be used to process fruits and vegetables into value-added food products. Convenience is a major driver of consumer demand. Whether it’s packaging, snacks or something unique, consumers are looking for value. Food entrepreneurs need to look for opportunities to develop and market new products. There are single people buying for their own lunches, moms buying for their children and the elderly looking for smaller portions. The food center can provide assistance with your food processing ideas and plans.
