depression blues

The old excuse "They are waiting for their checks" is already being trotted out by the usual suspects to explain the lack of movement of fresh produce.  No one examines this claim very often, but I think it rests on shaky ground.  The assumption is people on the lower end of the economic scale are waiting for their social security, welfare, pension or other government support program largesse so they can rush out to stores and buy lots of fresh produce.  Unfortunately, studies have shown that lower economic status also equates to less produce consumption and poorer diet choices.  So the 47% are not really boosting produce sales.   My experience at the Farmer's market is mixed.  The clientele is a mix of high income professionals and food stamp recipients, and for the market to work, both must have their buying shoes on.  I have to admit I did not keep track of receipts at the end of each month as opposed to the beginning, but  I only have data from 5 months.  Meanwhile, the markets are quiet and everyone is looking for excuses.