NORTH CAROLINA — Four state-operated farmers markets across North Carolina will remain open, officials say, along with a number of certified roadside stands and markets.

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said in a release Friday, "According to guidance from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, farmers markets fall under the same classification as grocery stores and are considered an important source of food for local communities."

NCDA&CS says the farmers markets that choose to operate during the coronavirus outbreak are required to follow the same federal or state orders given to grocery stores.

Additional safety measures are being implemented to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

"There is no evidence to suggest COVID-19 is a foodborne illness," officials say, but, out of additional caution, staff will be encouraging reduced contact with products and prohibiting product sampling. 

Some markets will also be offering curb-side pick up and pre-packaged boxes to reduce contact and promote social distancing.

You can find information on the four state-operated farmers markets below.

State Farmers Market, 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Note: The State Farmers Market Restaurant, NC Seafood Restaurant and the Market Grill are closed.  

WNC Farmers Market, 570 Brevard Road, Asheville

Hours: Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Note: The Moose Café is closed

Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, 1801 Yorkmont Road, Charlotte

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market, 2914 Sandy Ridge Road, Colfax

Hours: Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Note: The Moose Café is closed

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