Products with ingredients sourced in this country may appeal to more than just those consumers who chant "U.S.A.! U.S.A.!" at Olympic events. Yes, patriotism may be a plus, but food manufacturers also may consider other benefits, including supply chain control and reduced carbon footprint, when buying ingredients close to home.Consumers may associate food products with ingredients grown in the United States as being "local." To point out the rise in demand for local food, HealthFocus International, St. Petersburg, Fla., cites U.S. Department of Agriculture data showing the number of farmers' markets in the United States increased 54% over the past five years.
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