By Blake Jackson
Kentucky is celebrating its farm families this week with the commencement of Kentucky Farmers’ Markets Week, running from August 4 to August 10.
Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell is encouraging Kentuckians to visit their local farmers' markets to enjoy the fresh and nutritious farm products available.
“Farmers’ markets remain a vital resource to get farm fresh foods directly to our Kentucky consumers,” Commissioner Shell stated. “We know that access to nutritious food is critical to maintain a healthy lifestyle and Farmers’ markets provide the freshest and healthiest foods direct from Kentucky’s farms. If you haven’t made it out to a Kentucky Proud farmers’ market near you, this is your invitation to stop by and see what your agriculture neighbors have to share.”
This year’s Farmers’ Markets Week highlights Kentucky’s 178 farmers’ markets spread across 114 counties, featuring over 3,000 vendors.
These markets not only provide consumers with high-quality, fresh produce but also foster a direct connection between people and the farmers who cultivate their food.
Kentucky Proud markets offer a range of products, including fresh produce, meats, eggs, flowers, and value-added goods.
In a new initiative, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Hospital Association have launched the “Food is Medicine” campaign.
This partnership emphasizes the importance of high-quality food for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, advocating for better nourishment to promote overall well-being and long-term health benefits.
Farmers' markets play a crucial role in ensuring consistent access to nutritious food, especially in urban areas where fresh produce may be less accessible.
Since 1994, the number of farmers’ markets in the U.S. has surged from 2,000 to over 8,600, with Kentucky’s market count growing from 43 in 1993 to 178 today.
These markets not only support local agriculture but also contribute significantly to the economy. Last year, Kentucky’s farmers’ markets reported sales exceeding $15 million, and every dollar spent on nutrition incentives at these markets can potentially generate up to $3 for the U.S. economy.
To find a farmers market, visit kyproud.com/farmers-markets/.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy