Local Food Systems and Farmers’ Markets-an Exploratory Study

Abstract

The local food systems and farmers' markets support the local economy, build relationships between producers and consumers, and promote social interaction along with the provision of fresh and nutritious foods. The local food systems cater to the three dimensions of sustainability viz. environment, economy, and society by providing access to fresh produce. Various models of local food systems are in operation, direct-to-consumer, direct-to-retail, farmers markets, and farm-to-school programs each with distinct features of operation. Consumers prefer local food markets as they perceive the locally grown food to be fresher and they like unique and special foods on offer at these markets. Policy support and capacity building of smallholder farmers on reducing the cost of cultivation, marketing skills, and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential. Farmers' markets are integral to local food systems and various models of farmers' markets are operational in different countries of the world. The mode of functioning and operational principles of a farmers market (Rythu Bazar) in the Telangana State of India has been described in this article. The participating smallholder farmers benefitted from higher price realization, an increase in earnings, and immediate cash receivables. However, the major constraint was inadequate storage facilities for leftover produce. The disruptions to food supply chains faced during the covid-19 pandemic have indicated that the farmer's markets were preferred by both poor and elite customers alike and thus the local food systems can provide resilience to the food systems. The SWOT analysis of the farmers' markets indicates a robust system with explicit strengths, and operational weaknesses, the opportunities are also many and with the suitable policy and affirmative action the threats can be addressed.