HARRISBURG – A proposal now making its way through the Pennsylvania Legislature would make the state’s promotion of locally produced foods, called PA Preferred, a permanent program of the state Department of Agriculture. That would be a good thing, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding testified Thursday (April 22, 2010) to the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.

PA Preferred, launched in 2004 by Governor Rendell, identifies agricultural products grown and processed in Pennsylvania to consumers and major retail, wholesale and distribution chains interested in supporting local farmers and businesses. The program’s trademark is a gold checkmark in a blue keystone that can be found on products year-round.

Its website shows 50 different Montgomery County PA growers and vendors are involved in PA Preferred, including:

  • Sharkey’s Hot Sauce and Marinades Inc., Royersford
  • T’s Gourmet Potato Chips, Trappe
  • Starry Night Pepper Co. Inc., Collegeville
  • Betts Food Products – Villanova Cheese Shop Inc., Pottstown, and
  • R-Berry Farm, Gilbertsville.

“With more than 4,800 PA Preferred member locations throughout the state, we must take steps to recognize their commitment and good work by setting the path for ensuring the state’s leading industry – agriculture – remains a viable part of our future,” Redding told committee members.

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