Cincinnati grocers and farmers’ markets are seeing a surge in business as the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak continues to impact nine states, including Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. With 24 cases reported in Hamilton County and over 2,500 cases in Ohio, locals are becoming more conscious of where their produce is coming from.

Local Produce in High Demand

Customers at the Sunday market in Hyde Park are looking for fresh, locally grown produce. "I trust the farmers, and I know they use organic methods and don’t have pesticides," said Erin Houlihan from Columbia Tusculum. Liz Stite, general manager of the Hyde Park Farmer’s Market, noted that the market has seen an uptick in attendance as people become more interested in knowing their farmers and the origin of their food.

ETC Produce, a Walnut Hills grocer that sources all of its produce from local farms, has also seen an increase in customers. Owner Toncia Chavez said, "We support local farms, and we know our farmers. We know where our food comes from." The Hyde Park Farmer’s Market emphasizes the importance of transparency and traceability in the food supply chain, especially during the outbreak.

Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.