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Illinois Promoting Local Foods

"Buy Illinois!" That's the message the state's Department of Agriculture has for consumers.

The state is promoting the idea by encouraging grocery stores and farmers' markets to take part in its new "Where Fresh Is" campaign.

Jennifer Tirey of the Agriculture Department said Illinois shoppers are more inclined to buy food if they know it's grown on Illinois farms. 

"It's always great to be a fan, a consumer, a purchaser of those locally-grown, fresh fruits and vegetables," said Tirey.

The agriculture department said the state could see a $20 billion per year increase in economic activity if consumers increased spending on locally grown food by 10%.

Participating outlets will receive free marketing materials that promote locally-grown produce.

The deadline to apply is February 15th.

Thanks to Illinois Public Radio

Rich is TSPR's News Director.