A farmers market is a place where local farmers and growers come together to sell their fruits and vegetables directly to local consumers. In addition to produce many farmers markets offer other food items to include pastries, eggs, cheeses, sauces, and honeys. Most of the best farmers markets attract dozens of local growers who sell their food on a weekly basis.
The farmers market is an excellent place to get the freshest food at the best prices while supporting the local economy.
Farmers get a great deal because they sell direct, and you get a great deal for the same reason.
Reasons to shop at Farmers Markets
To support your local community Every dollar you give to a local farmer is one dollar you don’t give to mega-corporations like Walmart or Safeway.
Often the food is cheaper. Although you can go to the supermarket and get 10 cans of “x” for $10, you can find even better deals at the farmers market. Most growers will give you a serious discount if you buy in bulk, because their goal is to sell ALL of their product.
The food is free of chemicals and generally healthier. Pesticides and other toxins are sprayed all over produce in large factory farms. Local growers use far less chemicals and thus you eat less chemicals.
Fresh fruits and vegetables taste better than canned goods. If you don’t believe me, ask one of your relatives or friends who have their own gardens. The food is fresh and often bigger than the genetically enhanced stuff at Safeway.
How to Find a Local Farmers Market
The AfroDaddy.com Resource Directory has listings for farmers markets in several cities:
One of the largest and most famous farmers markets in the country is the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco, which takes place every Tuesday and Saturday.
Many farmers are now accepting SNAP (food stamps) as payment for produce. Check with your local farmers market.
For the best selection, go to the farmers market early. The best looking fruits and vegetables always go first.
For the best deals, go to the farmers market late. A lot of the good food may be gone but you can get deals as farmers try to get rid of their inventory before day's end.
In this age of genetically engineered food you can buy any fruit or vegetable 365 days of the year at Walmart or the Mega-Grocery store. In the “real world” fruits and vegetables are seasonally grown. Here is an excellent link to see what Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables will be available at the farmers market.
Related Articles:
How to Identify Healthy Foods – 3 Simple Rules
Food Inc. - a movie about where your food really comes from
10 Great Websites for Black Vegetarians and Vegans
Vegans Are Not From Outer Space
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