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Farmers' Markets in America
What is a farmers' market? It is a place where a group of farmers gather to sell what they have grown directly to the public. While some farms may have sales stands on their property and other farmers may sell Farmers' markets have long existed in America. After a lengthy period of disinterest, they became popular again in the 1970s and have been thriving since as consumers seek reliable sources of fresh, local grown produce. From 1994 to 2002, the number of farmers' markets in America increased 79 percent to more than 3,100. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, in 2000 there were 19,000 farmers in the U.S. selling their produce exclusively at farmers markets. What's so good about farmers' markets? Farmers' markets benefit farmers by helping them increase their income. When farmers sell produce to brokers or at packing sheds, they are price takers, forced to accept whatever price they are offered or to take their produce home unsold. At farmers' markets, growers are price setters, deciding for themselves what price is fair for their time and investment. That price is typically less than what is charged at local supermarkets because there is no middleman or shipping expense, while the quality of the produce is usually higher. Consumers benefit from this price break as well as from the opportunity to meet the people who grew the food. Produce is fresher, often Communities with farmers' markets benefit from keeping more of their food dollars at home. Markets often provide information on nutrition and produce preparation. Each market caters to the special needs of its community. As a result, no two markets are alike. Contact the ACFM at marketmanager@441market.com |
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Farmers Markets in America |
goods from trucks by the side of the road, these are not considered farmers' markets. 
picked the same day it is sold, instead of being shipped cross country. The varieties grown are selected for their flavor rather than for their ability to withstand shipping and handling. A farmers' market often has a festive atmosphere, making shopping there a pleasant experience.