More thoughts on going local

Some insightful thoughts on the buy local trend, from the Fresh Produce Industry Discussion Board:

Luis writes:

Wonder how genuine (trend or fad) is this movement. Also, this is not new and may be is just my own perception but I've also noticed more states issuing "Ag Tags" license plates to raise funds for activities like Ag education in the classroom.

Sharon responds:

As primarily a 'buy local' gal, I think this movement will continue to grow as long as it takes our citizens to get beyond the obesity epidemic and other diseases. As they realize that our supermarket shelves have been stocked full of products that have helped to create disease instead of health, our citizens are seeking better alternatives in what they fuel their bodies with. The pendulum swings.... and locally grown fresh food wins... for now.
I suppose that once we get healthier and our ag regional delivery systems mature, the movement will cease to be a movement, but simply a way of life. Sure, wheat and apples only grow so many places, so there will always be a national (and international) delivery system. But, for now, as we are desperate to get away from obesity (and increased rates of cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.), we will chose another way to feed ourselves. And, our manufacturers will get their due in lost sales of those items that has helped to create these problems in the first place.