About 10 years ago my husband and I were at the Farmers Market in Roanoke, Virginia, when I noticed a cardboard sign proclaiming "Halifax County Produce." I remarked to him that it was a good possibility that the produce wasn't even from the county, but since Halifax County didn't have a brand or seal for farmers' use, customers would have no way of knowing.

That day was in the back of my mind for years as I continually saw similar situations.