What is Kentucky Community Supported Agriculture, Farm Shares?

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — The Kentucky Farm Share Coalition is working to change how Kentuckians get their produce. Introducing people to fresh Bluegrass-farmed produce, sometimes cheaper than big-box stores.

“The beauty of a farm share coalition is making healthier foods available across the bluegrass while supporting local farmers and families,” said FOX 56 News chief medical contributor, Dr. Ryan Stanton.

Kentuckians are vegetable-deficient

In May, Kentucky ranked the third most obese state in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that only about half of Kentuckians eat fruit once a day and only about a fourth eat vegetables once a day.

The Farm Share Coalition estimates Kentucky faces a dietary crisis, with only 5.6% of adults meeting the daily vegetable intake recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A 2022 study found that, despite having access to rich farmland, Kentuckians eat more fast food than other states.

“Fresh vegetables are a key component to a well-rounded diet. The healthiest food plans will include a healthy balance and portions of fruits, vegetables, and proteins with decreased processed foods,” Stanton said. “Many of the common chronic medical conditions can be prevented, reversed, or at least controlled with a healthy diet and exercise.”

In 2018, the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment found people who had large medical and pharmacy bills saw a significant decrease in those bills after subscribing to the CSA.