Many farm markets still open

Beth Clawson<Clawsonb@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

Thirty-eight out of Michigan's 1,225 farmer’s markets are open year-round and are still offering local, fresh foods.

For many, diets switch from fresh foods to packaged, canned, and processed foods when winter arrives. However, this is not necessarily so. While canned and frozen options for most fruits and vegetables are still wholesome and obtainable from local sources, for many, nothing beats eating fresh, local foods.

In Michigan, there are many farm markets and several farmer’s markets still open during the winter. According to Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Michigan ranks among the top 10 states with the number of winter farmer’s markets open and offering fresh, local goods. Michigan boasts over 1,225 farmer’s markets with 38 open year-round.

Part of the reason is the increased demand for fresh, local food. The other part is the increased use of hoop houses to extend the growing season and our many greenhouse businesses. Michigan money spent locally often stays local.

If you live near a local farmer’s market or farm market that is still open in the winter season, take the time to stop by and check it out. Michigan farmers grow some of the most diverse food offerings in the nation and are capable of growing every type of food short of tropical choices.

Related resources

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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