Ag Commissioner issues statewide "Eat Local Challenge"

Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Gene Hugoson is challenging all Minnesotans to eat locally grown foods the first week of August. Hugoson's "Eat Local Challenge" is in observance of National Farmers' Market Week August 2-8. Hugoson says it's a great time to visit your local markets and farms and find the freshest foods available.

"I'm challenging every Minnesotan to eat locally grown foods that week and as often as you can," said Hugoson. "There are farmers' markets in every corner of the state brimming with wonderful fruits, vegetables and many other food and agricultural products."

Hugoson says the benefits of buying local go beyond the fabulous homegrown flavors.

"Buying direct from local farmers supports your local economy and provides the opportunity to talk directly with the people who produce your food," he said.

Participating in the challenge is easy to do. By signing up at the Minnesota Grown website, www.minnesotagrown.com, you'll receive an "I Eat Local" bumper sticker to show you've made the pledge. You can also access the Minnesota Grown Directory on the website where finding locally grown foods is a snap. The directory lists more than 735 locations where locally grown products are offered and by entering your zip code you'll find the ones nearest you.

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