Sweet Grown Alabama Day Celebrates Locally Grown Products and Farmers
July 24, 2022
As a celebration of locally grown products and farmers markets, Sweet Grown Alabama, the state’s non-profit agricultural branding program, hosted “Sweet Grown Alabama Day” on July 23. Six farmers markets across the state participated with special events, including free samples, kids’ areas, guest speakers and more. Consumers not located near one of these special events were encouraged to visit a local market or store to connect with farmers in their area.
Gov. Kay Ivey issued a proclamation declaring July 23, 2022 “Sweet Grown Alabama Day at the Farmers Market.”
“Whereas Sweet Grown Alabama helps consumers identify and purchase locally grown products from farmers markets usually sold within 24 hours of being harvested compared to foreign imports that have traveled an average of 1,300 miles for as many as seven to 14 days… Now, therefore, I Kay Ivey, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim July 23, 2022 as Sweet Grown Alabama Day at the Farmers Market,” read part of the proclamation text.
The Montgomery Curb Market participated in Sweet Grown Alabama Day while also celebrating the 95th birthday of the farmers market. Attendees enjoyed free tomato sandwiches, food trucks and bounce houses for the kids. Rick Pate, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries and Sweet Grown Alabama board member, was also on hand to commemorate the occasion. Event Coordinator Diann Causey said attendance was positive with new faces drawn to the market.
“While teaching school, I found that so many kids didn’t know where their food came from,” said Causey. “It is important for today’s generation to know and understand where to get fresh food and how to cook it.”
Sweet Grown Alabama Day allowed community members to engage with local farmers and ask questions about their food and other agricultural products.
“Farmers markets are a fantastic place to find local products and meet your farmer,” said Sweet Grown Alabama Assistant Director Aisling Fields. “When you support your community by buying local, it helps these farmers and their families continue to produce the highest quality product.”
Contributing more than $70 billion annually, agriculture is a key component in Alabama’s economy. Studies show that for every dollar spent locally, 60 cents are reinvested into the community. Consumers can ensure their hard-earned money stays in Alabama when purchasing Sweet Grown Alabama products.
Other markets who participated with special events included:
- Bessemer Farmers Market, Bessemer
- Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market, Foley
- Market at Pepper Place, Birmingham
- Prattville/Autauga Farmers Market, Prattville
- Town of Berlin Farmers Market, Berlin
Sweet Grown Alabama exists to connect farmers and families. Consumers can search for locally grown products at SweetGrownAlabama.org, or by looking for the Sweet Grown Alabama logo when shopping.