PENNSYLVANIA — This Thanksgiving, consider shopping locally to support Pennsylvania farmers. Agriculture is a huge part of the Pennsylvania economy, and by shopping at local businesses that display the PA Preferred checkmark, you are directly supporting family farms and jobs in your community. Secretary Redding said, “As we spend time with our loved ones, giving thanks for the season and harvest, we share our gratitude to the farmers and agricultural workers who fill our dinner tables this holiday season and every day.”
PA Preferred encourages shoppers to “check for the check” to ensure they are taking home trusted products that were grown or produced in Pennsylvania. The program’s new website, launched earlier this fall, enables users to easily search for PA Preferred vendors in their neighborhoods, learning the stories of Pennsylvania farmers and agribusinesses and the products they offer.
According to the USDA, Pennsylvania ranks second in the nation for the number of farms that sell directly to consumers. Consumers can shop directly from more than 6,400 farms and enjoy agritourism activities at more than 700 farms operating pick-your-own pumpkins and Christmas trees this holiday season.
Foods found in a traditional Thanksgiving meal are produced and harvested abundantly by Pennsylvania farmers annually, including more than 6 million turkeys, 100 million pounds of pumpkins, and 160 million pounds of potatoes.
Shoppers can find Pennsylvania products by:
- Looking for the PA Preferred logo in the grocery store,
- Seeking out and supporting Pennsylvania’s farmer veterans,
- Shopping at local farmers markets or on-farm stands,
- Visiting artisans of the PA Culinary Trails, and
- Using the PA Produce Guide to purchase in-season produce.
Donating to a local food bank helps families in need and supports agriculture. Find an organization in your area and learn how to volunteer or donate at agriculture.pa.gov/foodsecurity.
To find more ways to support Pennsylvania agriculture and buy local, visit papreferred.com.
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