Why Should You Shop Farmers Markets?

Aside from better tasting food, buying direct boosts your local economy. Reinforces sustainable growing practices and supports smaller, often family-owned farms.  Appreciate what Mother Nature offers you with 8 take away tips for your market shopping.

1.       Shop In Season-Learn in-season fruits & veggies based on your location. Seasonal produce is often locally grown at peak freshness and flavor.   

2.       Make A Plan-Trying a new recipe or doing meal prep.? Make a list and plan for substitutions if an item is sold out.     

3.       Do the Walk-Preview a market for availability & pricing. Look for certified organic producers & sustainable sellers with 3rd party certification (USDA Organic). Growers who adhere to Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS).

4.       Start A Conversation-Farmers & vendors enjoy sharing their knowledge. Growing methods, varietal info. and favorite prep. tips making you a better-informed consumer.    

5.       Buy In bulk or split it-Save on extra pints of berries & freeze. Split ears of corn with a neighbor. 

6.       Select Seconds-Odd, “ugly” produce still tastes great, use in fillings, purees, salsas & sauces.   

7.       Cash & Carry-Vendors pay higher credit card fees. Some offer discounts for cash or via payment app.s. Savings for both of you. Forget flimsy single use plastic bags. Carry home your purchases in totes, or baskets.  

8.       Stop & Shop-Taking a road trip? Stop at community markets for fruit & local specialties. Check this link while on the road. https://www.usdalocalfoodportal.com/fe/fdirectory_farmersmarket/?source=fe&directory=farmersmarket&location=&x=&y=