Mississippi Farmers Market Hosts Senior Day
Yesterday, the Mississippi Farmers Market celebrated Mississippi Farmers Market Week with a Senior Day event. Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson addressed visitors and emphasized the importance of local farmers markets for consumers and the community.
Senior Day included complimentary health screenings from the Student Health Coalition of Mississippi; egg taco samples from the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board; a cooking demonstration from Mississippi State University Extension’s “The Food Factor” host Natasha Haynes; and an informational booth from Mississippi Adult Protection Services. In addition to these activities, visitors were able to shop a variety of produce, herbs, beef, pork, mushrooms, honey, peanut/pecan brittle, bread, croissants and pastries from local vendors, as well as the Genuine MS® Store, located inside the market.
“Today we are celebrating Mississippi Farmers Market Week right here at the Mississippi Farmers Market in the capital city,” said Gipson. “Local farmers markets play an important role in the fabric of today’s society and we are proud to recognize the positive impact that these markets have on our consumers, farmers, communities and economy. The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce will continue to connect producers and consumers through our various programs and resources, such as the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, MS Farm Marketplace, Mississippi Market Bulletin, Genuine MS® Program and more.”
Mississippi is home to approximately 70 farmers markets, out of which 32 have been certified through MDAC’s Certified Farmers Market Program. These markets allow consumers to purchase fresh, locally grown foods, while supporting Mississippi farmers. Agriculture is Mississippi’s largest industry, representing 18.6% of all economic activity in the state, and farmers markets are a significant part of that activity.
“Agriculture remains our top industry. It’s the #1 driver of our economy, and so much of agriculture centers around food,” continued Gipson. “It has been said that food is healthcare and food brings people together. So, we celebrate Farmers Market Week in July because this is prime time for fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy products and more. This is the season for healthy, fresh foods straight from farmers, and I encourage the public to buy their produce now. Buy for meals today, but also for the future. Buy enough to put back and freeze for the upcoming winter season.” View yesterday’s press conference in its entirety at link.
Governor Tate Reeves signed a proclamation designating July 7-13, 2024, as Mississippi Farmers Market Week. Mississippi Farmers Market Week was established by MDAC to create awareness of local farmers markets and recognize the significant contribution of farmers markets to local communities.
Find a complete list of Mississippi’s farmers markets and learn more about MDAC’s Certified Farmers Market Program at www.msfarmersmarket.com. Follow the Mississippi Farmers Market on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for additional information and updates on future market events.
