The Indiana Department of Agriculture has launched a new initiative to promote Indiana-made products to state residents. The program is called “Indiana Grown.” Its goal is to help Hoosiers identify, find and purchase products that are grown, produced and processed in Indiana.

Led by Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann and a 12 member commission, the program will help connect businesses that use or sell agricultural products with Indiana-based producers of meat, milk, cheese, fruit, vegetables, wine, beer and forest products.

The initiative aims to educate consumers on the importance of buying locally grown products, increase networking and sales opportunities for Indiana farmers and expand support for Indiana processors in their effort to use more products grown in Indiana.

“The Indiana Grown initiative will be an incredibly useful and economically impactful tool for consumers and producers alike,” said Lt. Governor Ellspermann.

Hoosiers spend approximately $16 billion per year buying food, but more than 90 percent of that is sourced from outside of Indiana. Starting this month, consumers will begin seeing decals, kiosks and logos highlighting products grown, produced and processed inside the state.

Program members and partners will include farmers, producers, processors and artisans, as well as retailers, grocers and restaurants.

“Indiana Grown is the first statewide, state-supported program that creates a clear understanding as to where products are farmed, produced and/or processed in Indiana,” said Ted McKinney, ISDA director. “Indiana Grown is aimed at lifting up the state’s robust food and beverage industry by providing the necessary tools to further promote local products to Hoosier consumers.”

For more information of the Indiana Grown program or to apply for membership, visit IndianaGrown.org.

Source: Indiana Grown