Farm Facts

U.S. consumers spend just 10% of their disposable income on food each year.

In comparison:
Indonesia 55%
Philippines 38%
China 26%
France 15%
Japan 14%

98% of U.S. farms are owned by individuals, family partnerships or family corporations.  Just 2% of America’s farms and ranches are owned by non-family corporations.  Most U.S. farm products sold are produced on farms owned by individuals, family partnerships and family corporations (86%) Non family corporations only account for 14% of sales.

Today U.S. farmers are the most productive, each farmer produces enough food to feed 143 people in the U.S. compared to only 19 people in 1940.  Farmers also participate in conservation programs that prevent soil erosion, preserve and restore wetlands, clean the air and water, and enhance wildlife habitat.  Farmers also help conserve the environment by growing crops that are used as renewable fuels with an increase in bio-diesel production from just 15 million gallons in 2002 to 75 million gallons by today’s standards and an increase in Ethanol production of 900 million gallons in 1990 to 4900 million gallons in 2006.

Have you thanked a farmer today?

Farm Facts are brought to you courtesy of American Farm Bureau Federation Farm Facts Pocket Guide