Maryland's buy-local exhibit set for next month in Annapolis

Maryland growers are cordially invited to exhibit their products later next month at a state-run buy-local trade show, according to a press release.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture is holding the January 24 display that will be held in a bigger facility than the one earlier this year, which attracted the registration of more than 300 vendors. The vendors varied among farmers of produce, artisan cheeses, producers of ice cream and farmers of beef and bison. The exhibit also attracted representatives from supermarkets, chefs, directors of nutrition at schools, distributors and officials involved with economic development.

Officials with Maryland Cooperative Extension and regional agricultural marketing were in attendance as well.

Commercial purchasing agents are becoming increasingly interested in Maryland-grown fruits, vegetables, meats and specialty foods. Maryland farmers fulfill vital roles such as providing healthy food, saving and putting open farm land to good use, and widening rural economies.

The January 24 event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Football Stadium in Annapolis. For more information visit www.marylandsbest.net.