INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — In an effort to brand Indiana’s locally-grown fresh produce and unique specialty foods from across the Hoosier state, Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman launched Indiana Grown during a program at the Indiana State Fairgrounds on March 30.

“This program will provide the visual recognition long needed to better showcase the wide variety of fresh, high quality foods and products our Hoosier growers have to offer,” said Skillman, who also serves as secretary of agriculture and rural development. “Our goal is to help families from not only here in our state but around the globe easily identify and buy Indiana-grown products.”

More specifically, Indiana Grown is a cooperative effort among Hoosier farmers, processors, wholesalers, retailers and restaurants and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to brand and promote Indiana produce and production. 

The new certification program encompasses a wide variety of Indiana products including everything from produce and field crops to dairy, meat and poultry products, as well as fish and seafood and ornamental horticulture.

The program will be administered by the ISDA and membership into the Indiana Grown program is available through an application process. All farm producers, specialty food producers, and others engaged in the production of agricultural products in Indiana are eligible to apply, according to Skillman. 

Consumers will be able to spot certified Indiana Grown products by looking for the logo at farmers’ markets, retail outlets and online.

To download an Indiana Grown application or for additional details, visit www.in.gov/isda/2513.htm or contact the ISDA at 317-232-8770.

The announcement was made in conjunction with the launch of the Indiana Artisan Marketplace. 

Through the Artisan Marketplace, certified food and art artisans will be highlighted and promoted who create high-quality art, crafts and value-added foods in Indiana.

Hoosier food and art artisans are encouraged to apply to now become a certified Indiana Artisan. The deadline to submit the online application is noon on April 25.

For more information or to download an application to become an Indiana Artisan, visit www.indianaartisan.org