Thursday, September 15, 2016

Shop a Farmer’s Market Like a Pro

Shopping at a local farmer’s market can be a fun and cost-effective way to purchase fruits and veggies. For those who are new to the farmer’s market, check out the following tips to make the most of your visit:

1. Get there early to enjoy your choice of fresh produce before it has been picked over. Or, if you want to save a few bucks and don’t mind a slim selection, wait until the end of the day to get a better price on produce. Many farmers do not want to bring leftover fruits and vegetables back with them so they will sell the unsold produce for a lower price.

2. Be flexible. The produce featured at your local farmer’s market is all grown locally. Therefore, don’t expect out of season produce or fruits and vegetables not grown in your region. If you can’t find your favorite fruit or veggie at the farmer’s market then don’t be afraid to try something new.

3. Bring cash with you. More farmers are accepting credit cards, but many have high minimums or are cash only. Fortunately, many accept WIC checks or SNAP benefits and some even offer incentives for using benefits at the market, such as doubling the value of the benefits.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Farmer’s markets often have a great variety of vegetables that may not be found in your local grocery store. Your local farmer is a great resource to ask about the vegetables and what meals can be prepared with them.

Bottom Line: The farmer’s market is an excellent resource for fresh local fruits and veggies. Now that fall is right around the corner and the crisp weather is settling in, walking around a farmer’s market is a fun family activity to get everyone enjoying the outdoors. Involve your kids and allow them to choose a few items of produce; if they chose it, they are more likely to try it at meal time. Click here to find a local farmer’s market or farm stand near you.


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