A growing emphasis for local foods during the pandemic has led to more value-added companies scouting Michigan for growth opportunities.

Jodi Gruner works with economic development for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and tells Brownfield the state’s access to a diverse selection of crops, water, university support, and location has more businesses considering development.

“I think a lot of people are changing their eating habits, the way that they’re purchasing, and so something that is made here can now be sold on Amazon to people all over the country or all over the world,” she says.

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