Why We Need Farmers Markets

"Americans' interest in farmers markets and fresh foods seems to be on the rise. Why?

Health leads. Today's alarming obesity rates make it more critical than ever that we shift from processed foods to fruits and vegetables...Second, local foods provide a buffer against national food scares...But farmers markets have other pluses -- providing, for example, opportunities for minority and immigrant farmers. They also bolster downtowns across the country and help stem economic leakage from communities..."