Asheville Whole Foods Essay

Many people visit the mountains of Western North Carolina in the fall to see the beautiful changing of the leaves and breathe in the fresh mountain air; however, for the locals this is the time to stock up on cheese, blueberries, collard greens, and many other exciting foods; all of which are found at the local fresh markets surrounding the Asheville area. One specific group that sponsors these local markets is Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) Connections. This is a nonprofit organization which connects local producers with the community and large businesses. Though some population in the larger Asheville area may see the extremes that Asheville takes to keep food products local as unnecessary, Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project Connections is necessary for creating economic infrastructures that make it easier for local farmers to succeed in business both small and large. At the

The word that makes any local, pro-economist, pro-environmentalist cringe: corporations. Most Ashvillians gawk at even the thought of large corporations supporting the local farmers, but it has become more popular than ever, even in the city of Asheville. Take for example Whole Foods, a large corporation founded in California and branched out to Asheville. This worldwide big-business, known for selling organic items and promoting healthy foods, has jumped on the bandwagon of supporting local farmers and featuring their seasonal produce. They not only claim to support them but also have a program through ASAP Connections which “[provides] up to $25 million in low-interest loans to independent local farmers and food artisans" (Whole Foods). Whole Foods is not alone in their local escapade, many other corporations around Asheville have begun to bring in local farmers to their business such as The Fresh Market, Earth Fare, and even Harris Teeter has began to consider the idea of having local produce sold in their