By now, you are probably well aware of the benefits of shopping at a farmers market. Not only is it better for the environment and a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, but it also gives you a chance to support local small farmers while experiencing the full range of fruits and vegetables native to your area. Plus, it is a great reason to get out on the weekend, and if you have kids, it can be an educational experience for them.
Not everyone is familiar with the ins and outs of shopping at the farmers market, however. Many of us are far more comfortable with the supermarket and may be a little daunted by the idea of shopping in an open-air market and buying direct from people who produce the food. But there is not much to it. Just keep these few tips in mind.
1. Start with a shopping list: While simply browsing the farmers market for whatever happens to be available can be fun, you will get more out of it if you know what you are looking for. Do a little research into the produce that is in season in your area (a quick Google search will give you the information you need), and come up with a few meal ideas based on these fruits and vegetables.
2. Be adventurous: Your shopping list will give you guidance, but do not be afraid to branch out and try new things. At the market, you may come across intriguing varieties of fruits and vegetables that generally are not available at the supermarket or even at the organic food store. If anything catches your eye, try it.
3. Do not be put off by the price: Fruits and vegetables from the farmers market will definitely be a bit more expensive than those from the supermarket. But keep in mind that supermarket produce arrives at its destination via a highly efficient distribution system that has been perfected over the years to maximize profits for the store and its corporate suppliers. Small farmers do not have this distribution system. They do all the legwork themselves. Remember this when shopping the farmers market, and remember that supporting local producers and benefiting the environment are worth the marginal amount of extra money.
4. Bring your own bag: Many vendors at the farmers market try to accommodate people by providing plastic bags for purchases, but it will be much easier if you bring your own bag—either a canvas tote bag or a reused bag from the grocery store.
5. Go early: If you want the best selection, try to get there as early as possible. Later in the day, you will still be able to find some items to your liking, but the most of the goods will already have been picked through.
6. Learn something: In general, vendors at the farmers market love to talk about the products they are selling. Many grow and harvest the produce on their own, and they love to talk about the care they put into their work. You will also likely find vendors selling prepared foods such as baked goods, treats, and breads, and these people will likewise be happy to talk about their process. The same cannot be said for the giant companies that produce the packaged foods at the grocery store.
By Marc Courtiol