Direct Marketing and Local Food

Direct marketing is when farmers sell food straight to buyers instead of through large processors and retailers. It includes farmers markets, roadside stands, community supported agriculture shares, farm stores, and sales to schools and restaurants. This topic covers how local food systems work and the federal, state, and local agencies and rules that touch them, including food safety, licensing, and shipping.

People usually ask how small producers reach customers, what permits and inspections sellers need, and how food products can be shipped or delivered. Others want to know how government programs support local food, and what the labels used in local markets mean.