Did you know that according to the Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan has about 300 different agricultural commodities and is second only to California for its agricultural diversity?

I did not.

According to an article in the Lansing State Journal Michigan produces melons, tomatoes, cucumbers, shallots, lettuce, beets, candy onions, peaches, pears, plums, strawberries, potatoes, apples, soybean, winter wheat, hay and sweet corn to name a few.

Michigan’s Farm Bureau also informs us that Michigan is the number two producer of dry or edible beans, such as black, navy, kidney, red, pinto and cranberry beans.

The spokesmen for the Michigan Farm Bureau was quoted in the article stating:

Agriculture is one of the biggest economic drivers in the state, and it’s fascinating because it is so diverse.

Is it then right to say we are sort of a bread basket for the nation and aboard, I think so?

I think it is important to highlight what Michigan has to offer to the nation and it certainly appears that it is more than just cars and the other businesses that support the automotive industry.

So next time you buy agricultural products you may be buying produce that was actually grown here in Michigan.

Bon Appetite!

The Live with Renk Show airs Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to noon. To let me know your thoughts during the show please call (269) 441-9595.

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