National Farmers Market Week
August 4th-10th of this year is designated as National Farmers Market week which highlights the important role farmers markets play in our local and national food system.
By recognizing and celebrating these markets, it gives the farmers the opportunity to promote their nutritious products and the community the opportunity to learn more about these products directly from the farmers. This week is a great time to spend a few hours outdoors with family and friends while enjoying the array of delicious produce.
Tips to get the most from a visit to the local farmers’ market:
Know What’s in Season
Having knowledge of seasonal produce will help identify what kind of produce to expect in abundance at the farmers market. To help identify what crops are growing in abundance in Florida throughout the months.
BYOB
Bringing your own bags can help reduce waste and decrease the number of individual bags that may be carried for each item that is purchased. Also, some farmers may offer discounts to shoppers who use their own bags.
Bring Cash
While bigger farmers markets usually have a credit card machine, they are cumbersome, costly, and it can be hard to connect to wi-fi. By bringing cash and small bills (plenty of fives and ones), less time will be spent checking out and more time shopping.
Buy in Bulk
Buying by the case and in bulk quantities is cost-effective as most farmers will discount whole boxes of fruit and vegetables by 15-30 percent. Some may even offer a further discount for those who regularly shop weekly in bulk.
Buy Whole Plants
Rather than constantly buying herbs to cook with, buy the cilantro, basil, or parsley plant to grow at home. Many farmer’s markets will also sell vegetable seeds to plate in your home garden. Letting you grow your own vegetables from scratch.
Take a Lap
Don’t just stop at the first vendor you see, take a few laps around to sort out what all the vendors have to offer. This will help to compare the prices and quality of goods that different vendors are selling. This is also a great way to get to know individual farmers.
Farmers Markets in your Area!
– Dana Gardner, Registered Dietitian, MS, LD/N
Want more?
Check out our previous edition of Food for Thought!
National Mango Day is July 22nd! Primarily a summer fruit, mangos come in several shapes, sizes and varieties. Learn about mangos and their incredible health benefits with our previous edition of Food for Thought!
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