Farmers Markets are Open!

Farmers Markets are a great community resource for fresh and loca produce.  Local produce is seasonal by definition and has usually traveled less than a day from the farm to a market.  Buying local produce supports local farms and helps us to stay connected to fresh seasonal flavors.  In addition, the cost savings in less food travel is passed onto us as we can enjoy healthy fresh foods at an affordable price

Making the most of your Farmer’s Market Trip:

1.  Know the Seasons:  ask the growers what is fresh each week.

2.  Go Early or Late:  for the best selection be sure to show up early or for  the best deals stroll in just before the end of the market hours.

3.  Try New Foods:  farmers are experimenting with different varieties…taste a new fruit or veggie!

4.  Work in Volume:  the best deals are in bulk plan to freeze, can or make batches of your favorite recipe to freeze for later this year.

5.  “Whole Foods:” think in terms of how food grows and comes to the market.  Look for beets with greens attached and whole unpeeled carrots to avoid foods with any processing.

6.  Bring Bags:  reduce the waste in your own home by bringing recycled bags or boxes with you.

7.  Barter:  don’t be afraid to barter, especially if you go later in the day as farmers would rather get rid of items then to pack them back up in the truck.

8.  Plan Ahead:  think about meals for the week, work with your budget and purchase lighter items first so you are not weighed down while walking through the market.

9.  Talk to the Farmers:  introduce yourself and ask about their farming techniques, what they will have next month or how they like to prepare some of the fresh produce they are selling.

10. Enjoy!  Make it a relaxing experience, go with a friend or family member, stroll along and enjoy nature in the warm summer temperature, bright sunshine and fresh healthy foods from the earth.

Farmer’s Market Food Safety:

• Before & after preparing fresh produce, wash your hands for 20 seconds with soapy warm water.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water just before eating, cutting or cooking.
• Even if you plan to peel produce before eating it is still important to wash it first.  Any bacteria present on outside of items like melons can be transferred to the inside when you cut or peel them.
• Be sure to refrigerate cut or peeled fruits and vegetables within two hours after preparation.
• Make sure that eggs are properly chilled at the market if they are untreated. (45 degrees F)
• Bring an insulated bag or cooler for any meat you purchase and keep these items separate from other fresh purchases.

Looking for Farmers Markets?  Visser Farms is a large Farm in West Michigan that attends many markets in the area. Check out the Markets they attend and reivew their website for information on the CSA Box Program!