This weekend visit a farmers market with the family.
To locate a market near you – https://www.usdalocalfoodportal.com
Enter your location and you can search for farmers markets in your area or farms selling direct to consumers.
There are many benefits to visiting and purchasing from a local farmers market:
- A bonding opportunity with your family. Spend some quality time together out in the fresh air.
- Visiting a farmers market supports farmers in your local community. Buying direct from the farmer provides them a better return as the farm makes more money not having to sell at a discount to a grocery store.
- The produce you purchase at a market is minimally processed. Many small farms use sustainable techniques to grow the most nutritious produce. Large grocery stores sell produce grown using hormones, pesticides, and genetic modification (GMO’s). This food is highly processed to extend the shelf life, it damages the environment, and has a negative effect on our health. The produce you are purchasing at the farmer’s market was picked fresh.
- Presents an opportunity for kids to learn about produce and make a purchase themselves. Prior to visiting the market provide kids with a budget and some money. Cash in hand to understand the cost of the produce.
- Create a shopping list for each family member perhaps ingredients for a delicious family meal.
- Talk with a farmer while at the farm stand ask a few questions – what is the most popular vegetable sold at their farm? What’s your favorite thing to grow? When is the best time to harvest corn on the cob? Now is the time to get answers to kids many questions.
- Take your bounty home, prepare a delicious family meal together, and thank the farmer who worked hard to grow your delicious food.