World

U.S. grants 52 mln dollars to support organic, local food

2014-09-30 09:42:25

WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Agriculture Secretary said on Monday the ministry will grant over 52 million U.S. dollars to support the growing organic industry and local and regional food systems.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement during an event with Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe and local farmers at the Virginia State Fair.

"Consumers are increasingly demanding more local and organic options," said Vilsack, adding investing in local and regional food systems supports the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers, especially smaller operations.

The U.S. organic food production has increased about 240 percent between 2002 and 2011, compared with 3 percent in the non- organic food market. During 2013 to 2018, the annual growth rate of the U.S. organic food market will be 14 percent, according to latest industry data.

The U.S. Agriculture Department said the fund will be granted through the ministry's five programs, including Farmers Market Promotion Program, Local Foods Promotion Program, Organic Research and Extension Initiative, Community Food Projects grant program and Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program.

Editor:Liu Kan

Recommended Articles   >>