We have been discussing our goals, Re-evaluating them and with that being said… one of mine was to attend a Farmers Market each week! I have also wrote an article on the importance of vitamins and minerals to our overall health. Farmers Markets and vitamins and minerals go hand in hand. Of course, not realistic for everyone, as I mentioned in the article, to eat organic everyday but it is realistic to attend your local Farmers Market 1-2x per week. With the topics of conversation and with Summer in full swing, thought it was a great time to offer up discuss some of my tips for attending your local Farmers Market!
1. Take your time.. Enjoy all the Farmers have to offer! There are so many booths and so many farmers offering similar products, stroll around the market to scope out what’s available before shopping.
2. If you don’t recognize the produce that you’re looking at, don’t turn away rather take the opportunity to learn about the produce and try something new! Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what it is, how it is used, or how to cook with it! They often have suggestions for recipes and cooking ideas.
3. Bring cash in small bills, some farmers accept check but often only cash is accepted!
4. If you are looking for organic, don’t be afraid to ask if their produce is indeed organic! There are still non organic products at the farmer’s markets. Don’t be afraid to ask!
5. If you’re offered a taste of something, try it, why not! Don’t feel like if you try it you have to buy it, there is no commitment to buy! You might discover something new that you like.
6. Bring your own Bag to place all your products! You are going to a farmers market, best to be resourceful and bring your own bag rather than using plastic!
7. Bring a cooler if you anticipate that you’ll be away from home for awhile. The cooler will allow you to store foods and keep them fresh. — I know you all own a cooler! The roller coolers work awesome!
8. If you have children, it is a great opportunity for a fun day trip! Allow them to learn, talk to the farmers and buy some of their own produce! Farmers Markets are great for the whole family, even the dogs! 🙂
9. Take time to chat with the farmers about their particular farm, history, etc. You would be surprised what you will learn about the farmers and how far back their farming goes! Often the farms are very tight family run business that have been around for centuries. The food always tastes better and there is more appreciation for the food you are eating if you know where it comes from and the history behind those that grew it!
10. Try a new Farmers Market each week, or month! Search for your local farmers market locations and have fun visiting different ones. Farmers markets are so different in size, people, produce, entertainment, times of day and week, etc. It is always fun to try a new market and find the one that you enjoy the most!
Hope you take advantage of these markets and see the difference in freshly picked and locally grown produce! 🙂
