Participation at farmers markets has steadily increased over the last several years.  Not only are farmers selling fresh produce, they are selling value added products like pickles, salsa and canned vegetables as Certified Homebased Microprocessors.  Kentucky’s Homebased Microprocessing Program allows farmers to increase profits by adding value to their homegrown fruits and vegetables. The program is a collaborative effort with the UK Cooperative Extension Service, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Department for Public Health Food Safety Branch.  

Farmers who participate in the program can produce certain acidified and low acid canned foods in their home kitchen using a boiling water bath canner or a pressure canner.  Products can be sold from their farm, a farmers market registered with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture or a KY Farm Bureau Certified Roadside Market.  This year 31 workshops were held across the state, both in-person and virtual.  A total of 145 individuals received certificates.  There are currently 162 homebased microprocessors certified to sell canned goods in Kentucky.  This is a 4% increase over last year.